There's a particular kind of person who makes a market feel like a creative act.

Shan Kerr is one of them. Melbourne-based model, illustrator and content creator, Shan moves through the world with a sketchbook in her bag and an eye trained to catch the details most people walk past — the colour of a fruit stall, the texture of a paper bag, a stranger who stops to look at what she's drawing.

We spent a morning with her at Prahran Market over the Lunar New Year period, following her through the stalls for our Newness campaign Errands — and what emerged was less a shoot, more a portrait of someone genuinely at home in their own life. We sat down with Shan to talk new beginnings, creative ritual, and the art of trusting your instincts.

BN: We shot Errands together at Prahran Market over the Lunar New Year period. What does this time of year usually look and feel like for you?

Every year feels a little different, but this Lunar New Year in particular marked a big period of change for me, both personally and professionally. Closing out the Year of the Snake and moving into the Year of the Horse felt really symbolic - shedding a skin and stepping forward with momentum.

It’s my second year working in art and content creation full-time, and things have never felt busier or more energising. Projects like this campaign are the exact kind of work I used to dream about when I was just starting out. I’m heading into the new year feeling incredibly grateful, clear-headed, and ready for what’s next.

BN Are there traditions, meals, or family moments you always find yourself returning to — the ones that really signal the new year has begun?

My family usually has a big Vietnamese/Chinese feast at my grandma’s house - think crispy pork, rice paper rolls, lots of fresh herbs, noodle dishes, spring rolls, prawns (aka my food heaven).

Something we did differently this year was a family meditation / sound bath experience at home led by an incredible instructor (with my three sisters and parents).

It was such a grounding way to reflect on the past and come into the new year together - I’m hoping it will become a tradition.

BN: In a world of algorithms and AI-slop - what are the rituals and tools you lean use to stay connected to your own style, taste and identity as an artist and creator? 

Time in nature, whether that’s camping with friends, swimming at the beach, or just going for a quiet morning walk, plays a big role in keeping me creatively grounded.

I think the most meaningful and distinctive work comes from me tuning inward - listening to my body and intuition. I journal every night as a way to reflect on the day, write down anything that’s inspiring me and anything I want to work on, and I make a conscious effort to be offline as much as possible. These small, consistent rituals help me stay connected to my own style, taste, and sense of self as an artist.

BN: How much does everyday movement — cafés, travel, or simply passing through the city — shape the way you create?

Everyday movement plays a huge role in how I create. Being on the train, sitting at a café, or just moving through the city naturally feeds into the way I draw. I carry a small A5 sketchbook in my handbag, and the work I make in it tends to mirror wherever I am in my surroundings, my pace and my mood.

When I’m drawing out in the world, I’m often approached by people who also love art, and those small, spontaneous interactions are such a source of connection and inspiration. I love the freedom of being able to draw anywhere, knowing I’ll never really be bored because I can always pick up my pencils. At home, my process shifts - the drawings become larger and more detailed, shaped by having more time, space, and stillness.