testimonials //

Two of our daughters have been taking art lessons with Chelbi since they were 3. They are now 7 + 8, and have developed a wonderful bond with ‘Miss Chelbi’. It’s such a joy to watch the girls grow as independent artists, and amazing to observe the way Chelbi connects with + guides them. We are so blessed to have her as a teacher, friend, and community builder.

— Adam P. + Erica S. (Essex, CT)

Treehouse

They say that people who can’t do, teach. But that’s not true at all in Chelbi’s case. Our community is so lucky to have her as an artist AND as an amazing teacher to our youth.

— Nicole + Sam C. (Chester, CT)

We’re so glad we found Chelbi! Her warmth, kindness, and inviting personality helped Ary to feel immediately comfortable learning from her. We look forward to continuing lessons at Shell & Bee for a longtime.

— Toral M. (Old Saybrook, CT)

I am always amazed at how well Chelbi designs her lessons to the child’s age and abilities while still teaching a wide array of information about the art/artist of focus. Her passion for art is all encompassing which allows for a great learning environment, but more importantly gives her students someone to connect with.

— Kaitlyn N. (Deep River, CT)

We had my daughters’ 4th birthday at Shell and Bee today. Abby and Chelbi hosted our party of 12 sugar-high pre-schoolers and made the sweetest art project with the kids. Everyone had the best time. This was our family’s first go-around as far as a kids parties go and having it at the studio took all the stress out of it. Everyone left with the cutest gift bags of art supplies. I can’t wait to go back and take one of their classes- with or without the kids! How lucky are we to have such a special place in Deep River.

- Halley L. (Deep River, CT)

Shell & Bee at SoMA is a dream come true. I love how she has brought art to the community, myself and my children. Thank you.

- Jenna S. (Haddam, CT)

We feel so lucky to have found Chelbi and take her wonderful art classes. Her warmth and genuine love for art and teaching children comes through in all the projects she does with the children. The format is so well done; she first presents artists by reading a book about them and then works with the children in different mediums to practice each artists’ signature style. The children are engaged and excited the whole time.

–Morgan R. (Lyme, CT)

We love Shell&Bee! Chelbi the owner is super sweet and really helped my daughter come out of her SHELL and feel comfortable. My daughter looks forward to her art lessons every week. We recommend you try them out!!

-Alyssa K. (Essex, CT)

I am so proud of what Chelbi has built here. After being through art school I have never seen a company that dips their toes in ALL of the arts (clay, printmaking, clay, painting, claymation, photography, ect). It’s honestly remarkable what they provide to children of all ages. I also really admire how they treat their students. It’s such a great organized machine they have going that really works with their community and appreciates their staff!

- Kelsey R. (Haddam, CT)