Sandi Blanda, self-taught folk artist, was inspired in 1983 when she discovered a sailors’ valentine for the first time. These sea shell mosaics in octagonal cherry or mahogany cases were originally intended as souvenirs from whalers during the Victorian Era. Sandi’s intent is to express her romantic compositions in a lacy and sometimes “funky” statement. A love of Americana, nature and especially flowers, coupled with the changing seasons, provide the inspiration continually reflected in her work.
Sandi Blanda, self-taught folk artist, was inspired in 1983 when she discovered a sailors’ valentine for the first time. These sea shell mosaics in octagonal cherry or mahogany cases were originally intended as souvenirs from whalers during the Victorian Era. Sandi’s intent is to express her romantic compositions in a lacy and sometimes “funky” statement. A love of Americana, nature and especially flowers, coupled with the changing seasons, provide the inspiration continually reflected in her work.
In addition to designing Sailors’ Valentines, Sandi is a dedicated wife and mother of two daughters. Sandi has won many awards for her work, including first place in the Sanibel Shell Show in Sanibel, Florida in 1990 and then again in 1992-1997. Sandi is the only Sailors’ Valentine artist to win awards for thirteen consecutive years at the Sanibel Shell Show. Sandi Blanda is also listed in “Who’s Who in America”.
