Shan Fannin

"Pontiac Cheiftain" (2021) by Shan Fannin, Acrylic Painting, Classic Yellow Car

2021

Shannon "Shan" Fannin (b. 1969) specializes in contemporary vehicle portraiture, creating dynamic acrylic compositions that capture both mechanical precision and emotional resonance. A California native who initially trained in special education art instruction, Fannin spent 25 years in marketing and business before returning to artistic practice in her forties. Her automotive focus developed organically through participation in classic car culture, leading to professional recognition within a year of resuming her art career. Fannin works exclusively in acrylics, often on canvases measuring up to six feet in length. Her technique combines detailed brushwork with gestural hand-painting, creating textured surfaces that emphasize reflection and movement. The artist travels internationally to photograph subjects and interview owners, incorporating these personal narratives into works that explore vehicles as symbols of aspiration and identity. Her paintings have garnered awards at national and international exhibitions and have been featured in automotive and fine art publications worldwide. Collections include works held across three continents. Based in Austin, Texas, Fannin is represented by select galleries across the United States including Abend Gallery.