Artistic and creative careers are among the most rewarding, but they also come with unique challenges. We asked some of the city’s best creatives to tell us why they choose to pursue a creative career.

Ryan Nightingale

I actually used to be a neuroscientist. Then I was diagnosed with severe fibromyalgia and couldn’t work in the labs anymore. I fell into a deep depression after, with my days filled with brooding and cynicism. Then I decided I had the extra time and had always wanted to paint; so, why not start to learn? After that, painting became my world, my lifeline. Soon I found myself having a new reason for getting up, and a purpose once more. Art soon became the sole thing I wanted to do with my time, and I began to even dream of painting. Thus, I decided that, despite the risks of becoming a starving artist, I had to pursue what had become my reason for living. If i didn’t, I knew I’d always be wondering “What if?”. Read more>>

Carmen Garza

Actually, it chose me. Ever since I was a child, I recall my love for creating art. I would sit quietly by myself for hours and use crayons to create stain-glassed drawings on paper. No two were ever alike and they were bursting with unique shapes and colors. I remember that art was my favorite class too. Read more>>

Josh Jones

As a former mechanical engineer, I often got bored of being stuck in a “box” with little to no creative flexibility. I chose to pursue winemaking for many different reasons. Winemaking was not merely a career choice for me; it was a way to leave a lasting legacy. I wanted to create wines that told stories, that transcended time, and that would be cherished by generations to come. It was about more than just crafting a product; it was about infusing each bottle with a piece of my heart and soul. Read more>>

Laura Del Falco

I have always been driven by making sure I can express myself to be my most authentic self. I grew up practicing synchronised swimming for 20years. This is how I built the foundations of my creativity and nurtured it. As an adult I knew that I wanted to do a career that would allow me that type of freedom. Read more>>

Alisa Seleznova

I started my artistic career in dance at the young age of 7. As early as 10 years old, I already had a clear vision of becoming a professional dancer and dance teacher. The allure of the dancer’s lifestyle and the aesthetic appeal of the dance studio fascinated me. The wooden floors, the mirrors, the elegant attires, the dance shoes, and the music that creates an inspiring atmosphere that drew me in. Read more>>

Paul Hemmes

I was always interested in film. I’ve worked in one capacity or another for most of my life. Sometimes creatively, sometimes in a corporate setting. I’m curious and enjoy the opportunity to express myself and push myself beyond my comfort zone. I can and have worked many different types of jobs; I’m happiest when I’m creating. Now that I’m getting a bit older and my family obligations are settling down, it’s time to push a little harder into filmmaking as I can take on a bit more risk. Read more>>