COUNTRY VS. TOWN: SHIRLEY YANG CRUTCHFIELD

SHIRLEY YANG CRUTCHFIELD grew up in the Bay Area, with a big stretch of her childhood spent in Taiwan from second through eighth grade. She was an only child for 12 years before her younger sister and brother came along, which definitely shaped her outlook on life. Shirley’s family traveled often between the U.S., Europe, and Asia, giving her an ease of moving between different cultures. Whilst she always loved drawing, she didn’t see a creative career as a real option at the time. Instead, she studied engineering at the University of Southern California, expecting to take a more traditional career path.

Shirley spent her early career in media and tech, working at companies including Fox, Amazon, and NBCUniversal. “Those experiences eventually led me to start my own tech company. I sold that company shortly after having my first child. Those years were busy, challenging, and hands-on,” she says.

Now she is an artist who paints iconic women in 24K gold. “I work from my home studio in Hinsdale, and travel for my exhibitions and live-gilding events. My days are a mix of studio time, family time, and building my art business,” she says.

Do you have a mantra? “This too shall pass” On your reading stack? I am obsessed with Greek myths and the Trojan War: The Lost Books of the Odyssey by Zachary Mason and Mythica by Emily Hauser are favorites. What organizations do you support? We like to support non-profits in the realm of education and the arts. I am currently serving as a Board member for Salt Creek Ballet.

What’s your signature entertaining style? Private chef, house music, and lots of wine. Coffee or tea? Both! Country or dance music? Dance. Favorite winter tradition or activity? Escaping to Carmel. 

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WHEN IN COUNTRY

What’s your go-to outfit? When the weather is warm, I love to wear dresses. When it’s cold, I love statement coats and leather gloves. Is there anything you can’t leave the house without? My phone! Where do they know you by name? RedE Mas, Hinsdale Wine Shop, The Fruit Store, The Framemakers in Westmont. Describe your perfect day? A productive morning either working on my paintings or securing partnerships, lunch with a friend at Toni’s, a nice 60-minute massage, mini nap, time with the family.

WHEN IN TOWN

What’s in your bag? Phone, wallet, small makeup bag, sunblock, Apple earbuds, kids’ socks. Describe your perfect day? Brunch in the Gold Coast, walk along the lake, meetings downtown by the river, dinner somewhere chic. Best quick bite or hidden gem? Ciccio Mio. Do you have a favorite museum? All of them are so great! The kids especially enjoy the Museum of Science and Industry.