Art
Shell use in art.
Ancient inlay arts from China and the Korean Art of Najeon Chigli are the masterful ancestors of modern inlay techniques. The advent of shell veneers and laser cutting have made almost any design possible, and the task less daunting.
Uncoated and coated veneers offer a range of textures and colours for the more natural to the more diverse. Flexible veneers enable you to produce inlay art on curved surfaces, without losing the depth of shell iridescence.
Some artists work with naturally shaped shell pieces for a 3D texture that is closer to nature. Cutting your own pieces from raw shells gives you another level of control over the final creation. Terrazzo shells are yet another way to express your creativity, with a more subtle texture
Examples Of Shell Use In Artworks. Your Inspiration.
These artworks showcase the many ways shell can be used, from laser-cut pāua veneer in jewellery to mother-of-pearl inlaid into wood. Larger shell pieces create bold features in resin, while smaller pieces add delicate detail to sculptural forms.
Wood Inlaid Veneer
A graceful swan is carefully created with mother-of-pearl pieces inlaid into wood. The shell’s soft lustre brings the bird and its surrounding scene to life.
Paua Eye Details
Small paua details bring a vivid glint to the octopus’s carved wooden form. The iridescent eyes stand out against the deep tones and flowing grain of the wood.
Paua Inlay
Paua details are worked into the radiating design, complementing the carved wooden elements and central artwork. The shell catches the light and adds a distinctive accent to the piece.
Small Shell Pieces
This sculptural Māori pikorua features a decorative top embellished with small shell pieces. Their natural shimmer adds a fine contrast to the warm-toned form.
3D Sculpture
Paua inlay highlights the bird’s feathers, adding flashes of blue and green to its layered form. A line of shell along the base echoes the detail above.
Large Shell Pieces
This bold Māori tiki combines large, colourful shell pieces with resin. The iridescent shell creates striking detail across the sculptural form.
Paua Veneer
This floral brooch features laser-cut pāua veneer arranged in delicate, layered petals. Its natural shimmer adds detail to this wearable artwork.
Paua Accents
Paua is set into the curves of this sculptural piece, adding shimmer to its smooth white surface. The shell creates a striking contrast within the flowing form.
