About the Artist

Vanessa Shinmoto originally hails from the San Fernando Valley, once home to the Sherman Oaks Galleria and, incidentally, the porno capital of the world. In her late 20s, she traded the sunny climate for bitter Chicago winters. Vanessa admits to falling in love with Chicago during a summer visit and decided to stay indefinitely.

Vanessa's artistic career began in an area of Chicago billed as the Chicago Arts District. Proponents of the arts district designation implemented a policy of "branding" to ensure the title would stick. Galleries proliferated and artists competed with them for buyers and publicity. "Artrepreneur" became the new buzzword for an emerging breed of artist who ran alternative galleries.

During this time, Vanessa taught herself Photoshop to create promotional materials for her exhibitions. Learning Photoshop to design graphics for her exhibition invitations inspired Vanessa to change her artistic approach. She used her non-dominant left hand to create edgier, more spontaneous and whimsical artwork featured on this website.

Vanessa often hosted electic art parties at her studio space. Colorful characters and true creative types mingled under the spell of saketinis and live music by MF Chicago. One memorable party was a fundraiser for Beyondmedia Education. This unique local nonprofit collaborates with underrepresented women and youth to create powerful grassroots media.

Vanessa has since moved MaladjustedArt to an undisclosed location to focus on her artwork. She continues to exhibit artwork and plans some wacky projects, one of which involves sushi. Stay tuned!