Our Founder
“A desire to introduce creative thought and beauty into the everyday things of life.” - Claudio Alcorso, Founder
Sheridan was founded in 1967 by visionary entrepreneur Claudio Alcorso. As a boy working in the family textile printing business in Italy, Claudio acquired an extensive knowledge of textiles. When he migrated to Australia, he brought an understanding of the importance of quality and a passion for art and beauty. Claudio believed that art belonged everywhere, not just on gallery walls.
Claudio was passionate about Australian art and culture and his contributions helped to shape modern-day Australia. Whether it was collaborating with renowned artists in the 1940’s, becoming a founding member of the Australian Opera or helping to pioneer Tasmania’s wine industry, Claudio was a key contributer to the history of this country.
Seeing a fresh, vital beauty in Australia, Claudio sought to bring art into the home, combining the inspirational with everyday living. His vision was to “introduce creative thought and beauty into the everyday things of life.” That vision still holds true for Sheridan today, guiding us in everything we do.
1939
Italian entrepreneur Claudio Alcorso landed on Australian shores dressed in a white linen suit. With a pioneering spirit he paved the way for the Australian textile and creative industries.
1957
Claudio commissions renowned architect Sir Roy Grounds to build a home by Tasmania’s Derwent River, establishing the winery Moorilla Estate.
1968
Claudio’s passion for the arts continues to thrive, with his Moorilla property becoming a showcase for sculptures collected from across the globe.
1982
A passionate environmentalist, Claudio is arrested for protesting against the damming of the Franklin River.
1946
Forming Silk and Textile Printers in Sydney, Alcorso collaborates with Australian artists William Dobell and Margaret Preston to bring art into the home through textile innovation.
1967
The name “Sheridan” is coined over a glass of wine, as Claudio launches his new company, specialising in home furnishings.
1971
Claudio becomes the founding Chairperson of the Australian Opera, helping to bring out the first Opera singers to Australia from Italy.
2000
Claudio passes away aged 88, having spent his twilight years with his wife Lesley at their Moorilla Estate property.
1939
Italian entrepreneur Claudio Alcorso landed on Australian shores dressed in a white linen suit. With a pioneering spirit he paved the way for the Australian textile and creative industries.
1946
Forming Silk and Textile Printers in Sydney, Alcorso collaborates with Australian artists William Dobell and Margaret Preston to bring art into the home through textile innovation.
1957
Claudio commissions renowned architect Sir Roy Grounds to build a home by Tasmania’s Derwent River, establishing the winery Moorilla Estate.
1967
The name “Sheridan” is coined over a glass of wine, as Claudio launches his new company, specialising in home furnishings.
1968
Claudio’s passion for the arts continues to thrive, with his Moorilla property becoming a showcase for sculptures collected from across the globe.
1971
Claudio becomes the founding Chairperson of the Australian Opera, helping to bring out the first Opera singers to Australia from Italy.
1982
A passionate environmentalist, Claudio is arrested for protesting against the damming of the Franklin River.
2000
Claudio passes away aged 88, having spent his twilight years with his wife Lesley at their Moorilla Estate property.