My name is Shannon, or Shan, or Sweens, whatever you find most fitting. I was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and I live with my wonderful husband, Kaden here in sunny Los Angeles. He is a screenwriter, and I am a freelance artist/graphic designer and work as a Set Decoration Coordinator in the film industry. Together, we love film, eating yummy food, and spending time together. I love traveling, art, and helping others.

Several years ago, I was serving an LDS mission and got really into lettering and watercolor painting as a creative outlet in my free time. I had always wanted to pursue a career in graphic design, but that was the first time I truly put pen to paper. Along the way, I painted a map of my mission. Initially it was a simple personal project, but soon other missionaries were asking if I would paint a map for them too. Word spread and I got more and more requests. My own map was personally meaningful, and I loved providing that to other people as well. With such positive feedback in my own mission, I realized that missionaries everywhere would probably enjoy the maps too. Upon coming home, I posted my map to a missionary Facebook page, and soon had numerous requests.

Creating this small business of mine, Shop Shannon Sweeney, has definitely had its growing pains. It took a lot of trial and effort, but I’m proud to have grown to the point where my shop helps to financially support my husband and I, even living in Los Angeles! Just as important, it’s enabled me to grow as an artist, and to be able to use my talents to bring joy into other people’s lives.