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Starting again: How Shree took a leap of faith and rediscovered her inner artist

Starting again: How Shree took a leap of faith and rediscovered her inner artist

Aug 28 2026

At 28 years old, Shree made a decision many people only dream about. She stepped away from a successful career in interior design to pursue a life-long passion for art. 

The journey back to creativity began with a growing sense that something was missing. 

"I loved drawing and painting as a child, but as I grew up and started working as an interior designer, I lost touch with my art," she said. "I didn't even have time to doodle. I felt unfulfilled and needed to do something that brought joy back into my life." 

Although her career provided professional stability, Shree realised she had gradually drifted away from the artistic foundation that had inspired her to study interior design in the first place. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she began doodling again. Those sketches evolved into paintings and soon became a turning point. 

"As daunting as it was at the age of 28, I decided to take a definitive break from interior design to find the artist I had lost," she said. 

As an international student arriving in Australia on her own, Shree faced the dual challenge of restarting her career while adapting to life in a new country. Rather than allowing uncertainty to hold her back, she embraced the opportunity to start again. 

Enrolling in Melbourne Polytechnic's Certificate IV in Visual Arts (CUA41320) was the first step of the journey. 

"I researched a few different courses, but no other institution offered the sheer diversity found in Melbourne Polytechnic's Certificate IV program," she said. "In just one year, I was able to try so many new mediums, from oil painting and printmaking to photography, life drawing and illustration." 

The experience exceeded her expectations and inspired her to continue into the Diploma of Visual Arts – Illustration (CUA51120). 

Over the next two years, Shree developed strong technical illustration skills, refined her conceptual thinking and gained a deeper understanding of visual storytelling. But the most significant transformation was a personal one. 

 

 

Illustration created by Shree @the_tealstory

Like many emerging creatives, Shree wrestled with self-doubt. A self-described perfectionist, she struggled to know when a piece of work was finished. 

"With the support of my peers and wonderful teachers, I stopped underestimating myself and finally gained the confidence to look at a piece and say, 'It is complete now, and it is good,” she said. 

"Most importantly, I have developed the confidence to introduce myself as an artist and illustrator, something I once hesitated to claim.” 

One of her proudest achievements during her studies was helping organise Illustre, the end of year student exhibition. Shree played a central role coordinating the event, personally helping mount and frame around 140 artworks. She also took on the roles of documenting and cataloguing exhibition requirements, managing budgets, organising gifts and speeches, and labelling the exhibitions. 

"Being selected not only to exhibit but to contribute to the organisational team was both an honour and a challenge," she said. "What I value most about working in a team is the shared sense of purpose." 

Shree's contributions were recognised when she was awarded Melbourne Polytechnic's Outstanding VET Student of the Year for Arts at the 2026 Graduation ceremony. 

"It felt completely surreal," she said. "I came to realise that it was a reflection of my hard work, dedication and willingness to take initiative." 

Looking ahead, Shree is focused on building her artistic career and sharing her work with the world. She is currently developing two painting series that explore both her Indian heritage and her experiences building a new life in Melbourne.

"Two years ago, I had absolutely no plans for the future," she said. "Today, I am confident enough to want to exhibit and display my art with the world." 

For anyone considering a creative career, Shree’s advice is simple; don't underestimate yourself. 

"Being an artist is the ultimate form of self-expression," she said. "The best way to overcome self-doubt is by finding the right guidance. Melbourne Polytechnic is the perfect place to launch your career. They have exceptional teachers who will help you realise your true potential."

 

You can see more of Shree's artwork on Instagram @the_tealstory.