Scott Shaw, a native of Hollywood, California, spent his early years growing up in South Los Angeles, before returning to Hollywood for his teenage years. Despite being surrounded by the film industry, Shaw did not initially pursue acting or directing, instead focusing on his two lifelong passions: martial arts and eastern mysticism. Through his dedication to these subjects, he has established himself as a respected teacher and prolific author.
Shaw's twenties were spent traveling back and forth to Asia, where he eventually entered the film industry in his early thirties. He quickly transitioned from actor to producer and director, creating numerous feature films, music videos, and documentaries that embody his philosophy of Zen Filmmaking. This innovative approach eschews traditional scriptwriting, instead relying on spontaneous inspiration.
To characterize Shaw as artistically diverse would be an understatement. In addition to his work in the film industry, he is a novelist, poet, artist, photographer, and musician. His musical compositions often find their way into the soundtracks of his films, further solidifying his reputation as a multi-talented creative force.