SR ARTS
STUDIO
Shirui Tao
Founder & Director
Ceramic Artist & Trainee Creative Arts Therapist
I am currently a Trainee Clinical Creative Arts Therapist, specialising in facilitating multi-modal artistic experiences to create safe, inclusive spaces that support stress relief, self-awareness, and personal growth. My research focuses on postmodern feminism, humanistic and existential therapy, body language (dance), emotional regulation, trauma recovery, identity formation, and immigrant experiences.
I have extensive experience in therapeutic community arts programmes, supporting diverse groups including youth, neurodiverse populations, multicultural families, women’s development, and disability communities.
As a professional ceramic sculptor, my artworks explore unconscious themes, dream symbolism, identity, and psychological complexity, fostering meaningful dialogue through exhibitions. I also founded SR Arts Studio in Parnell, Auckland, hosting community art workshops to promote therapeutic creative expression and connection.
Education
2025 - 2026
Whitecliffe College | Master of Arts in Creative Arts Therapy (Clinical)
2024 - 2024
Whitecliffe College | Postgraduate Diploma in Creative Arts Therapy
2022 - 2023
The University of Auckland | Master of Fine Arts
Awards
2025
The Arts House Trust | Artists in Residence Exhibition
2023
Elam Project Space Gallery | Levitation Tea Party
2022
George Fraser Gallery | Boundless
2022
The Lola Tunbridge Watercolour Prize | Us
2022
Taitea Masters Award in Creative Research Scholarship
2021
Eden arts awards | Multiple Selves
Yan Sun
Contemporary Artist
Community-Based Creative Art Educator
I am a visual artist and experienced art educator with a Master of Fine Arts from the University of Auckland. My creative practice is inspired by digital media and Zen philosophy, exploring the balance between stillness and motion, tradition and modernity.
​
My work bridges spiritual insight with symbolic visual design, blending traditional aesthetics with contemporary digital illustration and generative forms. Through multi-modal and cross-disciplinary approaches, I investigate the interconnection between inner experience and visual expression.
​
As an art educator, I have years of experience guiding individuals and groups through creative exploration. I am passionate about inspiring imagination, encouraging self-reflection, and fostering mindful engagement through art-based learning.
​
Currently based in Auckland, I contribute to community-based art initiatives and continue to expand my practice through new media experimentation and cultural dialogue.
Education
2022 - 2023
The University of Auckland | Master of Fine Arts