Paintings Made of Shells
Gallery 33 is pleased to present the exhibition “And the Sea Remains Within Us… Shell Paintings” — an inspiring journey into the world of mollusc art, a form of art born from a love of the sea and created from its natural treasures. The exhibition is part of the European Night of Museums and Galleries, Varna. The opening will take place on May 19, 2026, at 6:00 PM, and the exhibition will be on view from May 19 to June 3, 2026.
The artist Maria Nikolova, born and raised in Varna, presents unique artworks created from seashells, snails, rapana shells, sand, and other natural materials collected along the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, the banks of the Danube River, and beyond Bulgaria.
The exhibition is a special gift from her sister, Prof. Anna Nedyalkova. In Maria Nikolova’s works, the sea’s treasures are transformed into flowers, landscapes, seascapes, and icons.
“It is a feeling of freedom and boundlessness, of tenderness and security, even when the sea roars restlessly. The sea is a vow, a dream that everyone secretly longs to touch,” shares Maria Nikolova.
Her works radiate warmth, harmony, and light — as if the sea itself has left its imprint on every shell. They carry a message of patience, love, and faith in the beauty of simple things.
With more than ten solo exhibitions and numerous works in private collections around the world — including Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Turkey, the United States, and England — Maria Nikolova continues to inspire viewers to discover hidden talents within themselves and to feel the sea as part of their soul.
“And the Sea Remains Within Us… Shell Paintings” is an invitation for everyone to immerse themselves in the magic of the waves, experience freedom, and discover their own inspiration.
Opening: May 19, 2026, 6:00 PM
Exhibition Period: May 19 – June 3, 2026
Venue: Gallery 33, 2A Gabrovo Street, Varna
Tel.:0899878333
E-mail: contact@gallery33.art
Admission: Free