Life-long artist and trained graphic designer who combines technical skills with heartfelt storytelling. Creates original artwork, writes and illustrates children’s books, and builds audiences through consistent online content and hands-on crafting. Experienced in independent creative work and client-based commissions, with additional strengths in program facilitation, family support, and collaborative planning. Brings creativity, self-discipline, and a strong connection to audiences through meaningful, accessible visual storytelling.…

Tanya Richards

Life-long artist and trained graphic designer who combines technical skills with heartfelt storytelling. Creates original artwork, writes and illustrates children’s books, and builds audiences through consistent online content and hands-on crafting. Experienced in independent creative work and client-based commissions, with additional strengths in program facilitation, family support, and collaborative planning. Brings creativity, self-discipline, and a strong connection to audiences through meaningful, accessible visual storytelling.…

Available to hire

Life-long artist and trained graphic designer who combines technical skills with heartfelt storytelling. Creates original artwork, writes and illustrates children’s books, and builds audiences through consistent online content and hands-on crafting.

Experienced in independent creative work and client-based commissions, with additional strengths in program facilitation, family support, and collaborative planning. Brings creativity, self-discipline, and a strong connection to audiences through meaningful, accessible visual storytelling.

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Skills

Experience Level

Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Program Facilitator at PASS Pals Adult Services Society
August 1, 2022 - Present
Facilitated the needs of program members. Assisted in the implementation of a variety of individualized reinforcers with which our members use to participate in different activities and social situations throughout the program. Maintained a supportive dialogue with the families. Both of us working towards the success of their child's individualized program. Identified areas in need of improvement and provided solutions. Created floor plans and implemented them to create a better work environment for program members and staff. Coordinated the moving of furniture and items with a professional moving team. Planned a variety of classes and activities for program members to assist in their growth and development. Attended weekly meetings to discuss our member's individual needs, their goals, their safety and the safety of the other program members and staff. Designed a logo for the social enterprise division of the company. Created engaging artwork to use in my classes.
FSCD Aide at PACE Kids
March 1, 2020 - April 1, 2022
Provided support to children and their families to increase independence; offered emotional support; promoted teamwork and understanding; observed activities; organized and participated in activities; communicated with staff.
FSCD Aide at PaceKids
March 1, 2020 - April 1, 2022
Provided support to children and their families to increase the child's independence and build skills in their home environment. Offered caring and emotional support to families, giving them the confidence they needed to support their child. Supported children's development by encouraging teamwork and understanding of others. Observed and monitored children's activities. Organized and participated in fun activities with children. Promptly received and forwarded incoming communications, such as phone calls, emails and letters, to appropriate staff.
Paraprofessional at Issaquah School District
October 1, 2017 - June 1, 2019
I supported teachers in special education classes for children with various physical, behavioral and mental needs. I helped students increase their independence and progress towards meeting their IEP goals. Delivered personalized educational, behavioral, and emotional support to individual students to enable positive learning outcomes. Oversaw students in classroom and common areas to monitor, enforce rules and safety, and support lead teacher. Assisted in maintaining engaging and respectful educational environment by promoting discipline and cooperation. Kept classrooms clean, neat, and properly sanitized for student health and classroom efficiency.
Sales & Marketing Manager at Minuteman Press
August 1, 2016 - October 1, 2017
Responsible for designing and generating marketing campaigns and driving sales. Identifying new markets and customers was key to my success. Assisted in the production and delivery of finished products. Analyzed sales and marketing data for improved strategies.
Volunteer (Therapeutic Riding Program Support) at Windreach Recreational Village
September 1, 2011 - September 1, 2015
Supported the therapeutic riding program by assisting elementary school children with special needs during lessons while ensuring safety and well-being. Used strong interpersonal communication to convey information to others.
Volunteer at Windreach Recreational Village
September 1, 2011 - September 1, 2015
Supported the therapeutic riding program, I assisted elementary school children with special needs during their lessons while ensuring their safety and well-being. Used strong interpersonal communication skills to convey information to others.
Artist at Self-employed
June 1, 1992 - Present
Created original art, ideas, and inspiration. Wrote, illustrated, and published the children’s book "Squirrel's Peanut Allergy." Produced designs suitable for screen print and embroidery applications, and delivered commissioned artwork for private clients and organizations. Developed sketches and drafts to refine artwork prior to completion. Worked across multiple materials and software (ink, watercolors, markers, paper, yarn, thread, fabric, computer software, paints, pencils) to create unique customer pieces. Maintained an e-commerce website for selling artwork and updated it frequently. Sold products in a Vancouver retail store (Artist Avenue) and marketed designs on RedBubble. Participated in craft shows to showcase work.
Self-employed Artist
June 1, 1992 - Present
Create original art, ideas, and inspiration. Wrote, illustrated, and published a children’s book titled “Squirrel's Peanut Allergy.” Produces artwork for screen print and embroidery applications, including designs optimized for finished products. Creates commissioned artwork for private clients and organizations, producing sketches and drafts to refine work prior to completion. Uses traditional and digital tools and materials (ink, watercolors, markers, paper, yarn, thread, fabric, and software) to complete unique pieces. Designs and maintains an e-commerce website to sell artwork. Purchases materials for projects, works with clients to clarify outcomes and requirements, and participates in craft shows to showcase work. Maintains and markets her YouTube channel “Red Cardinal Crafts” (since 2011), where she teaches crafts step-by-step.

Education

Diploma in Graphic Design at George Brown College
September 5, 1989 - May 29, 1992
education at George Brown College
January 1, 1989 - January 1, 1992

Qualifications

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Education, Professional Services, Retail, Other, Non-Profit Organization, Healthcare, Consumer Goods

Skills

Experience Level