Shan Richards is a visual artist and painter based in Sydney, Australia. She exhibits her work nationally and internationally, and is also involved in the MDOK program, a wellbeing initiative for doctors and healthcare workers in the Sydney Local Health District.
Shan graduated with a Bachelor in Fashion Design from the East Sydney Design Studio and the Whitehouse Institute of Design, and continued her studies in haute couture, learning the traditional techniques of moulage and draping. She built a private couture clientele, focusing on the art of couture and draping and producing beautifully hand crafted designs. In addition to her couture work, Shan has also worked commercially as a designer for Champion Sportswear, brand manager for Sergio Tacchini Australia, and product designer/developer for various other brands.
After gaining experience in the fashion industry, Shan moved overseas to study studio painting at the Chicago Art Institute before moving to London to further her career in fashion and art. While living in London, she acquired studio space above Marylebone High Street and was inspired by the "hidden wonder" of the West End. She developed a love for travel, exploring different cultures and landscapes, which she captured and reflected in her photography and paintings.
After returning to Australia, Shan worked as a product designer and developer for UBC before turning her focus to painting. Today, she exhibits her work in solo, group exhibitions, and art fairs. Alongside her art career, Shan is also dedicated to using her skills to support healthcare workers through her involvement in the SLHD's MDOK wellbeing program.
Shan’s inspiration is drawn from her love of cultures, colours, and by the concept of manipulating fabrics into intricate 3D pleated "sculptural" works. She explores the relationship between the techniques of draping and painting, highlighting bold colours to create "fabricated" illusions of depth and form. And with her intense love for colour, from abstract explorations to detailed figurative works, she utilizes colours to evoke a spectrum of emotions, from vibrant energy to serene calmness. Shan is committed to creating impactful and meaningful work that pushes the boundaries of traditional artistic expression.