Hi, I'm Fiona Ariva.
Fiona Ariva believes in finding creativity in everyday moments. Whether it’s adding a wax seal to wrapped packages, handwriting a card in beautiful calligraphy, or turning everyday gifting experiences into treasured moments, indulge in your creativity and spread joy to your loved ones with Fiona Ariva.
We are based in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
the long version
I used to work as a tax accountant in a large corporation. I got there because I followed 'the system'; I did well in high school, studied Commerce at university, and had a job lined up before I finished my degree. I never really paid serious attention to my creative side, because I didn't have the confidence that it would be a safe career choice. Needless to say, after a few years, I felt restless and unfulfilled.
At the time, my creative outlet was brush pen lettering. I used to write inspirational quotes on post-it notes, which I stuck on my cubicle's walls. They were a constant reminder of what was important. It wasn't until four years into my corporate career that I realised that I'd been stifling my creative side for so long that I'd forgotten who I was. I decided to take a career break in mid-2017 to figure out where I was headed in life.
During that time, I journalled, took calligraphy courses and joined some creative makers' groups. Towards the end of 2018, I launched my creative business, 'Fiona Ariva - Wax Seals & Modern Calligraphy' and it's been liberating, challenging, rewarding yet demanding all at the same time. I have written workbooks on how to learn brush pen lettering, designed my own range of wax stamps, collaborated with international brands and created digitalised, calligraphic artwork for global humanitarian campaigns. I've learned that creativity is about embracing your own individuality so that you can design your ultimate masterpiece - the life that you want to live.
When we are living our best lives, we inspire and empower those around us to do the same. Join me and allow your true creativity to be expressed!