She found art during a hard time in her life, turning struggle into strength and creativity into a career. Her paintings tell stories of hope, culture, and healing, showing how passion can change a life. She shares her journey, how she grew through struggles, and how creating art became her way to heal, express, and inspire everyone who sees it.
Can you tell us a little about yourself and how you first fell in love with art?
I’ve always been creative, but my art truly came to life during and after COVID. Whilst shielding with ulcerative colitis, painting became my outlet and eventually my purpose. It was during that time that I found my unique style and niche, and what started as therapy slowly grew into a full-time business. Art didn’t just find me, it transformed me. Explore my work here:https://www.artbyshree.com/
When did you decide to focus on your art full-time instead of your previous career?
I shifted into full-time art when I realised painting wasn’t just a creative outlet- it was transforming my life and touching other people’s lives too. As my commissions grew, I trusted my intuition and took the leap. It was scary, but it was the best decision I’ve made.
How would you describe your art style to someone seeing it for the first time?
My work blends abstract with spiritual storytelling. Think clouds, metallics, movement and energy- pieces that feel alive. People often say my art looks like it’s breathing.
Do you have a favourite piece you’ve created, and what makes it special to you?
My favourite pieces are always the ones born from healing. One that stands out is my Hidden Ganesh from the In the Clouds series- created with soft metallics and rich texture. It reminds me that even in our darkest moments, there is always light waiting to break through.
How does it feel knowing your art is displayed by celebrities or in big public spaces?
It feels surreal. Every time someone with a huge platform chooses my work, it’s validation that art with meaning, culture and emotion resonates far beyond the studio.
Your work often celebrates South Asian culture. What does that mean to you personally?
It means everything. As a South Asian woman, especially in a male-dominated industry, I wanted to create representation I never saw growing up. My art is my way of honouring our roots, our stories, our gods, our colours- and showing younger South Asians that our identity is powerful and worthy of being seen.
Faith and spirituality are part of your art. How do they inspire what you create?
My faith guides the energy behind each piece. I paint with intention- protection, strength, abundance, healing. I truly believe that art carries vibration, so I pour gratitude and prayer into every brushstroke.
You’ve contributed to many charities and public projects. Which one touched your heart the most?
Creating pieces for the NHS and health initiatives has stayed with me. Having lived with a chronic illness, giving back to the spaces that supported me felt deeply personal.
How do you decide what message or feeling to convey in each new artwork?
I start with emotion. Every piece begins with a purpose, whether it’s to bring peace, strength, hope, or joy to the person receiving it. Once I know the intention, the colours and movement flow naturally.
Who or what inspires you the most when you’re creating something new?
My inspiration comes from nature, faith, energy, and the stories people share with me. Every commission carries someone’s journey, and that human connection fuels my creativity.
What challenges have come up while building ArtByShree, and how did you overcome them?
Being a woman, a minority, and someone living with ulcerative colitis in a male-dominated creative industry brought many challenges from being underestimated to managing my health. I overcame them by staying authentic, working smarter, and turning every setback into a canvas for growth.
Did working from home during shielding change your art or the way you approach your work?
Absolutely. Shielding slowed down my world but opened up my creativity. It taught me to listen to my body, embrace stillness, and make art from emotion rather than pressure.
What new ideas, themes, or projects are you most excited about exploring?
I’m excited to explore more divine abstract fusions and expand my cloud style into larger-scale works. I’m also working towards my solo exhibition, which feels like a beautiful next chapter in my journey.
Finally, what advice would you give to women who want to pursue their passion like you did?
Start before you feel ready. Trust your voice, even if it trembles. And remember- your passion is not a hobby, it’s your power! Take up space, stay rooted in your truth, and create a life that feels like you.
Editor’s Note:
This interview takes us through the journey of an artist who discovered her voice during one of the most challenging times in her life. What began as a way to cope with illness grew into a career full of creativity, culture, and purpose. She shares how she overcame obstacles, stayed true to herself, and turned struggles into growth.
Every painting she creates carries hope, faith, and emotion, inspiring everyone who sees her work.
As she says, “Start before you feel ready. Trust your voice, even if it trembles. Your passion is not a hobby, it’s your power. Take up space, stay rooted in your truth, and create a life that feels like you.”
Her story is a reminder that following your passion and embracing your journey can transform not just your own life, but also inspire and uplift others.
