Classes
The Museum offers classes in the fall and spring that dive deeper into the science, culture, conservation, and abundant creativity inherent in the world of shells and mollusks.
Learn how to identify Southwest Florida shells. Become a Marine Biologist for a day, exploring coastal ecosystems. Paint shells while sipping your favorite beverage. Practice the time-honored creative tradition of the Sailors’ Valentine. Get guidance on organizing and caring for your personal shell collection. These are just a few examples of classes recently offered.
With inquiries please contact Associate Director of Education Jorden Falker: jfalker@shellmuseum.org.
Creating Sailors’ Valentines
Two sessions: Tuesday, February 24, 8:30am-12:30pm and Friday, February 27, 8:30am-12:30pm.
Please note, registrants must be available for both sessions.
A Sailors’ Valentine is an intricate and historic art form based on using shells to create kaleidoscopic designs in octagonal boxes. With origins in early 19th century Barbados, the art of creating Sailors’ Valentines gained new popularity in the mid-20th century and continues today.
Participants will craft their own original Sailors’ Valentine, learn the principles of this traditional art form and create their own unique masterpiece. Previous experience is not required.
Materials provided include boxes, shells, other materials, glue, and everything needed. Participants are welcome (but not required) to bring their own small shells to include, or items for a centerpiece. Pastries and coffee with be provided.
Cost: $375 for materials kit and instruction ($350 for Museum Members).
Shell Ambassador Certification
Friday, March 13, 8:30am–5pm
Instructors: Dr. José H. Leal, Science Director and Curator; Jorden Falker, Associate Director of Education; Jessie Macaluso, Marine Biologist
This course prepares students to become a Museum Shell Ambassador volunteer and educate beachgoers about shells and mollusks. Topics include local shell identification, mollusk biology, dune plant and animal identification, Sanibel beach laws, tides, and identification of beach finds. To successfully become a Shell Ambassador, students must pass exams on shell and beach identification as well as Sanibel’s beach regulations.
The Museum provides materials including pre-course study materials, a laminated shell guide, Shell Ambassador certificate and official shirt (upon completion). Coffee, light breakfast, and lunch are provided. Recommended advance reading is Florida’s Living Beaches by Blair and Dawn Witherington.
Cost:$150 ($120 for Museum Members).
Click here to register
Now You See Them, Now You Don’t
Instructor: Dr. José H. Leal, Science Director and Curator
Have you ever searched the beach for a Junonia or a Lion Paw, but came up empty handed? You’re not alone! Some shells found on Sanibel are rare to find, and leave beachgoers determined for decades to discover one of their own. In this presentation, Dr. Leal discusses various elusive Sanibel shells and what makes them so hard to find. Afterwards, participants will have a chance to explore the newly reopened Great Hall of Shells and find these mysterious shells themselves.
Cost: $75 ($60 for Museum Members).
Click here to register.