My Story

Aloha Mai Kakou! My name is Devyn Gruber I’m 19 years old, born and raised in Lahaina, and currently a student at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. Starting Shells by Dev wasn’t just about making jewelry or sharing my shells finds, it is a way to support myself while living on my own, stay connected to my home, and start building something bigger than myself.

Growing up in Lahaina, the ocean has always been a one of the biggest parts of my life. Diving for the shells used in my collection has become more than a hobby but a form of meditation. I’ve also always loved art in all forms, I’ve tried just about everything from painting, sculpting, sewing, photography, and jewelry making. I’ve gone through so many creative phases, and I’ll probably go through so many more. That’s one of the things I love most about making art; it’s always evolving just like us.

After the Lahaina fires, creating became even more personal for me. It helped me turn my grief into art that I shared with the community, which seemed to help a lot more people than I could’ve ever imagined. That experience made me realize I eventually want to open a community art studio in Lahaina. A space where people can come together, heal, and create with no pressure, just expression. That dream is still a ways away, but every piece I make, and sell brings me one step closer.

I care a lot about quality, and I make sure to use high-quality materials in everything I create. I’m always experimenting and improving my techniques, and while I’m not perfect, I put a lot of heart into everything I make. This business is just part of my story, but it has become a huge part of my life and I’m grateful for every bit of support along the way. I can’t wait for what the future holds.

Mahalo for being here!