Li Xiao, non de plume Shelly, was born in Shanghai, China in 1957. Having recognized his talent for painting at an early age he focused his studies on fine art during high school. Upon graduation, he was accepted as a student at the Shanghai School of Fine Arts and Crafts. In recognition of his excellence at that school, he was appointed a position as professor of Fine Arts. He taught the techniques of oil painting for the next six years.

In 1984 he attended the college of Fine Arts at the University of Shanghai to further his studies. Again, he was honored by being selected to join the teaching staff. As a professor he taught both undergraduate and graduate students.

Shelly came to the United States in 1987 where he continued his studies as an artist: he was immediately accepted as a student at the prestigious Boston Museum School where he would later graduate.

Shelly's work is currently being exhibited in New York, Baltimore, Minneapolis, Seattle, Lake Tahoe, Nevada, Raleigh, North Carolina, and Alabama.