When she moved into her beachside house eight years ago, Shamsia Banu did not know a career was waiting for her. Every day, she would collect shells found on the shore. One day, she realised she had a huge number of them. She wanted the shells to earn their place in her house. She began to create small curios with them. She first made a small flower and seeing her first creation, she was so excited. From then on, her imagination took over. She has now created shell curios of flowers, pen stands, tea coasters, tissue holders, boxes, candle stands, lamp shades, bulbs (decorated with shells) and wall hangings. Wired shells act as pot holders in gardens. She also has accessories such as earrings, hairclips and bangles. She has become so adept in shell craft that she won four awards at the Sanibel Shell Show in 2014, held in Florida. Two first and two second prizes.
Beyond an aesthetic interest in shells, she has also developed a scientific interest in them. Today, Banu doesn’t collect shells randomly. She is able to identify the type of shells she is picking up. Whether they are tusker, arc, turbo, kittens paw and so on. “The right time to collect shells is between 5.30 a.m. and 6.30 a.m. They are abundantly found during December and January,” she adds.
Banu also buys shells whenever required. As a matter of principle, she does not buy the costly ones. “Certain shells are costly because they are rarely found and if I buy such shells, I may be encouraging poaching of coral reefs,” she says. “It is always better to use shells which are washed ashore. We should have the patience to wait for the right time and right season,” she adds. Shamsia Banu also runs Blue Beach Shells Academy, which teaches shell craft. The course period is six Sundays. As part of the programme, trips are organised to various shorelines. Time: From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Those aged above 15 can enrol for the programme.
In view of Navaratri, Blue Beach Shells Academy will organise an exhibition-cum-sale of handicrafts made from shells on September 6 and 7 at C.P. Art Centre, Eldams Road. Works of Shamsia Banu and her students will be on display.
For details, call Shamsia Banu at 98406 39441 / 97909 58680 / 044 – 2449 0222.
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Mylapore Version
In view of Navaratri, Blue Beach Shells Academy will organise an exhibition of crafts made from shells on September 6 and 7. For details, call 98406 39441
