Meet the Artist: Kimberly Faucette of Sea Petal Boutique
Last summer, while wandering through the Nantucket Farmers Market, I came across the work of an artist I couldn't stop thinking about. Kimberly Faucette of Sea Petal Boutique creates one-of-a-kind pieces from carefully collected seashells, each one capturing the beauty and charm of the coast in such a unique way. I ended up bringing home one of her Moby Dick shell whales, and it's been one of my favorite pieces ever since.
I'm so excited to finally share Kimberly's work with the Cailíní Coastal community. Her collection launches today and includes her signature shell whales, Sailor's Valentines, shell bouquets, and other handcrafted pieces that celebrate the artistry of the sea. I hope you enjoy getting to know Kimberly and the story behind Sea Petal Boutique as much as I have.
CC: Where is Sea Petal Boutique based, and how did it first come to life?
KF: I am often between Nantucket, MA and Old Town Alexandria, Virginia. I became obsessed with “shelling” while on Nantucket one summer, and eventually had too many pieces and not enough space, so I decided to begin attending markets. Most of my markets have been on Nantucket, but I have also done markets in Naples, FL, St. Michael’s, MD and Wilmington, NC. I do not have a brick & mortar shop, so I primarily accept commissioned requests through my website.
CC: You began creating Sailor’s Valentines and seashell bouquets in Nantucket—what drew you to this particular art form?
KF: I was intrigued by the concept of 3-D art, and having spent 40 summers on this island, I was familiar with sailor’s valentines. This specific art medium was entirely foreign to me, so I wasn’t sure it would click. I absolutely loved it and it immediately became my therapy during a rough patch. Then I began putting my own style into designs and really leaning into my creativity.
CC: For those who may not be familiar, can you share a bit about the history behind Sailor’s Valentines and what makes them so special?
KF: Many people believe that during the 1800s, sailors would create sailor’s valentines for loved ones while spending months or years at sea. Others believe sailors purchased them in Barbados as exotic tokens of their travels. No one really knows, but I prefer the former.
CC: Your pieces feel incredibly detailed and intentional. What does your creative process look like from start to finish?
KF: Truthfully, I do not have a set process and I tend to design as I create. My only requirement is that every piece feels like Nantucket to me. Every other aspect of my life is planned, just not my shells.
CC: You’ve mentioned finding beauty in overlooked seashells—what is it about those materials that inspires you most?
KF: Every little shell was designed and created by God. I feel lucky I am able to complement that with my God-given gifts and give an otherwise unnoticed piece of nature new life. I often imagine what one tiny little seashell has seen in its existence.
CC: What’s your favorite part of the process?
KF: My favorite part of the process is without a doubt hunting for and finding the shells, no matter where I am. Turning a seemingly ugly seashell into a magnificent piece is incredibly fulfilling.
CC: Do you have a favorite piece you’ve created, or one that feels especially meaningful to you?
KF: The very first valentine I made is probably my favorite piece. I made it for my mom. She thinks it’s my best and I think it’s my worst. It represents a milestone in my life, and I love it for that reason.
CC: Nantucket clearly plays a role in your story—how does the island influence your work today?
KF: When I think of my childhood summers, I think of Nantucket. My parents began bringing me here when I was several months old and never stopped. The island lives in everything I make. Nantucket taught me that beauty can be quiet and weathered, and still be stunning.
CC: What do you hope people feel when they bring one of your pieces into their home?
KF: I want people to feel like they’ve brought home a real piece of Nantucket - not the trendy tourist version, but the traditional version full of family bike rides, beach days, and bonfires.
CC: Where do you typically source your materials? Do you collect them yourself?
KF: I have a few trusted resources I regularly turn to when sourcing rare items, but I love collecting the shells myself when possible. I purchase my octagon boxes from a lovely and talented woodworker in New England.
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