Illustrator Shag was born on August 31, 1962, in Hawaii, USA. While majoring in fine art at California State University, Long Beach, he worked part-time illustrating record labels. He continued working as a professional illustrator, and in 1997 held his first solo exhibition in Los Angeles. The works he exhibited garnered high praise, and Shag's name gradually became known throughout the United States. In recent years, he has also illustrated the album cover for The Brian Setzer Orchestra, and in 2004, he was chosen for the Pink Panther 40th anniversary campaign. He has created illustrations for numerous commemorative items, garnering attention in Japan as well. He is also known for his modern interpretations of the Hawaiian tiki statue.