When Siobhan (Shiv) Murray was made redundant in 2024, she could have seen it as a setback. Instead, it became the push she needed to fully embrace her artistic passion.
Now, through her business, Art by Shiv, she is steadily growing her presence in the creative world, offering art prints, gift illustrations, live wedding illustrations, custom stationery, and greeting cards.
Shiv’s journey began in 2020 during the pandemic, when she started painting for friends. What began as a creative outlet quickly turned into commissions from strangers. However, returning to full-time work meant putting her growing business on hold.
That changed in 2024. After deciding to explore digital art and rebrand her business, an unexpected redundancy accelerated her plans. She launched her first collection of prints, introduced her popular ‘speedy illustrations’, and stepped into the wedding industry with live guest illustrations.
“The response from my first live illustration event was incredible,” says Shiv. “It made me realise this was something special.” By January 2025, she had officially launched her wedding illustration packages, offering couples a unique, personalised experience for their big day.
Shiv has big plans for 2025. She is gearing up for her first in-person market and is set to expand her product offerings, all while balancing part-time work to pursue her dream full-time.
“Being made redundant was a huge turning point,” says Shiv. “Without it, I might not have taken the leap. Now, I get to create art that brings people joy, and I couldn’t be more excited for what’s to come.”
For more information on Art by Shiv and to explore her collection, visit www.artbyshiv.uk or follow her Instagram @artbyshiv.uk