Shawn Belanger was born in Calgary, Alberta in 1985. He still lives there with his parents, Greg and Nancy, his brothers, Kevin and Michael, and Michael's wife, Tanya.

Shawn showed an intense interest in art from an early age. Although he has no formal training, Shawn's innate abilities, the early influence of high school Art teacher Peter Chung and, more recently, under the mentorship of accomplished artist, Michael Ryan, Shawn has developed a unique style of art that is all his own. Shawn's attention to detail and his vibrant use of color can turn the simplest of photographs into classic pieces of art. Shawn has been featured in the Calgary Herald, the Autism Echo and has been a featured artist at the Balancing Acts Disability Arts Festival for the past two years. He has drawn the logos for multiple charities in Calgary, and he is currently working on an album cover for a local band. Shawn is enjoying success as a commissioned artist.

Shawn is a 24 year old man with autism and an infectious smile. His outlook on life has been an inspiration to many others. Shawn is an avid swimmer who loves to spend his summers hanging out at his family's cottage on Canada's east coast.