Lightning Whelk Press was founded in early 2021 with a desire to bring positive stories and images at a time when people were struggling with the throes of the pandemic and political strife. It was time to to be thankful and feel the goodness of life in the midst.
The press is named after a shell that embodies aspects of our mission.
Unique
Unlike virtually all other whelks, LW’s are lefties. They have a left-handed shell opening rather than right-handed opening, with a clockwise spiral rather than the usual counter-clockwise spiral. Something a bit different to be admired.
Special Human/Animal Relationship
These shells are easily found along the shores of the United States Atlantic coast where beach-combers often collect them for their fiery beauty. Lightning whelks leave a mystery along the shores too, as people often don’t realize that the snake-like structures washing on shore are old egg casings. These shells have been celebrated historically among native cultures as a symbol of renewal.