http://penelope.uchicago.edu/~grout/encyclopaedia_romana/aconite/conchylomania.html
This link will take you to this painting where you can learn more about the history of collecting shells. 

I was just asked by one of my  young artists what is a sea shell? Good question! Seashell or sea shell, also known simply as a shell, is a hard, protective outer layer created by an animal that lives in the sea. The term seashell usually refers to the exoskeleton (the outside covering of  the body)of an invertebratem(an animal without a backbone). The shell is part of the body of the animal.Empty seashells are often found washed up on beaches by beachcombers. The shells are empty because the animal no longer lives there. 

Bailey Matthews Shell Museum: A great eductional site complete with kids interactive pages



When you draw your seashell, record the important information. Include

Date:__________        Subject:  Sea Shell

Look at a seashell.  What basic shapes and lines do you see? What direction are the lines going in? Notice the lightest part of the shell and the darkest.  Now using your pencil slowly, slowly, slowly draw what you see. Describe your work. What elements or principles did you use in creating your sketch?

Line

Shape

Form

Color

Value

Space

Texture

Pattern

Rhythm

Balance

Proportion

Perspective

Emphasis

Today’s Art Lesson:

The Beauty of the All Around

“History= His Story” 

What’s the story you’re creating? 

    A little girl at age 9 wanted to be a mermaid.  Look at how she grew up. She used her imagination to make a difference in this world and to open our eyes to the beauty of “all around.”  Her name is Hannah and her mom made her a fish tail out of a pillow case one summer. She has grown up now and has worked really hard at free diving and swimming. She has also made herself a bit better tail. She is now an activist who protects the sea. She made this video to inspire you. Live the art-full life and do your part to make this world beautiful "all around!"