Shirley Yang Crutchfield is a Chicago-based artist whose powerful, gold-leafed works draw on art history, fashion, contemporary heroines and her own entrepreneurial journey. Her work has won international awards and been recognized for its exceptional craftsmanship and resonance. Shirley uses traditional 14th-century Italian gilding methods to create portraits of women that shine both literally and symbolically with beauty, grit, and timeless strength.

Her work is influenced by Byzantine art, Renaissance, Baroque and contemporary aesthetics, fashion, and the portrayal of strong female figures. Previously as a technology entrepreneur navigating a competitive industry, Shirley's experiences inspire her to create narratives that highlight the hard work, tenacity and perseverance required to reach the top.

Shirley successfully employs the traditional 14th-century Italian water gilding technique, "doratura a guazzo," in her art, acquired from Master Guilders worldwide. This expertise allows her to craft astonishingly detailed works adorned with 24K gold leaf, elevating her paintings in realms of beauty and significance. Through her art, her detailed craftsmanship and use of materials, she celebrates the strength and resilience behind success, inviting viewers to appreciate the stories that lie beneath the surface.