Shawn Merrick is a visionary creative leader, originally from Queens, N.Y., now residing in Columbia, South Carolina, with his wife and three children. With over 18 years of experience, Shawn has dedicated his talents to mentoring and inspiring young creatives as a Creative Director for high school and middle school students. Through his work in photography, theatre, music performance, and student productions, he has nurtured the artistic abilities of hundreds of students, leaving a lasting impact on the local arts community.

Shawn has played a pivotal role in advancing creative programs for organizations throughout the city, including Keenan High School, where his artistic direction contributed to the development of their state-of-the-art arts facility. His ability to push creative boundaries has made him a sought-after creative director, helping organizations and artists establish cutting-edge artistic identities.

In 2013, Shawn founded The Creative Culture Brand, a photography and production company envisioned as a collaborative hub for creatives. Through this platform, he has orchestrated major photoshoots and creative campaigns for top artists, including celebrity designers in the Southeast, national music artists, renowned comedians on tour, bestselling authors, and prominent fashion organizations. His work has been featured in 14 national and international magazine publications, further cementing his reputation as a leader in the field.

Beyond photography and production, Shawn has directed video projects celebrating culture and life, led creative teams for major events, and collaborated with institutions such as the Columbia Museum of Art, where he co-directed the Rendezvous Experience (A Celebration of Alexander McQueen) with museum staff. He has also been a guest speaker for business masterclasses for creatives, working alongside leading business organizations in South Carolina.

Passionate about the intersection of creativity and mental health, Shawn has produced Mental Health Summits for Creatives, bringing together counselors and artists to foster well-being within the artistic community. He is also the founder of The Creative Culture Art Expo (CCAE), a statewide event known for providing a safe space for creatives to gain knowledge, inspiration, and hands-on experience. The expo features live interviews, keynote speakers, and performances from celebrated artists such as William Starrett of Columbia City Ballet, national muralist Ija Charles, and Jessica Fitcher, director of Trustus Theatre. The CCAE has been hosted in esteemed venues, including The Opera House, The Ritz Theatre, Allen University’s Chappelle Theatre, the University of South Carolina’s Booker T. Washington Auditorium, and the Columbia Music Festival Association (CMFA), which most recently held a sold-out event.

As a trailblazer in the creative industry, Shawn Merrick continues to push the boundaries of art and innovation, forging new opportunities for artists and fostering a vibrant, inclusive creative community.