Shanna Hamilton is a talented Canadian artist, author, poet, and storyteller based in Victoria, BC. With a deep-seated passion for the arts, she began her career by showcasing her vibrant paintings in local galleries and selling her artwork. As both an accomplished artist and a dedicated community director, Shanna has played a pivotal role in fostering engagement in the arts. Through her leadership of numerous community art programs and successful art shows, as well as her service on various art councils, she has consistently demonstrated her commitment to enriching the arts landscape.
Shanna holds a diploma in Graphic Design, which complements her extensive practical experience in the field and fuels her enthusiasm for arts education. Over the years, she has collaborated with recreation centers, school districts, and esteemed organizations such as ARTSTARTS to create engaging and inspiring art programs for youth and aspiring artists. Notably, she developed the Kids Art Studio, a thriving after-school art program on Vancouver Island that fostered creative expression among a diverse range of individuals, leaving a lasting impact on students of all ages. With hundreds of paintings and dozens of wall murals to her credit, Shanna has taught thousands of students through her after-school programs, community initiatives, and private classes, inspiring others to embrace the transformative power of creativity.
In addition to her artistic endeavors, Shanna has embarked on a fulfilling journey into storytelling, driven by her love of character creation and a heartfelt desire to connect with young readers. Her enchanting world of poetry, which she began exploring at a young age, allows her to romanticize nature's vulnerability and delve into the depths of human emotion. Throughout her life, Shanna has been inspired by her dreams, leading to a multitude of characters that she brings to life through her writing.
Among her many creations, Shanna has crafted the delightful series "It’s All About Mo," inspired by her son, Moses, and his beloved cat, Teekee. These witty and heartwarming stories about their everyday adventures are set to be published soon. Shanna's debut work, "Shanty and Mo," written during Moses's fifth-grade year, beautifully encapsulates her commitment to storytelling with purpose. This poignant tale about Shanty, a captive dolphin yearning for freedom, and her loyal friend Mo emphasizes themes of empathy and teamwork, making it a valuable conversation starter about compassion for animals.
As Moses embarks on his own journey into fatherhood, "Shanty and Mo" becomes a cherished family keepsake that transcends generations. Through her captivating storytelling, heartfelt messages, and artistic expression, Shanna Hamilton invites readers of all ages to explore the fragile beauty of our world and the bonds that unite us. Stay tuned for more exciting creations from Shanna—there's much more to come!