Deciding to pursue an artistic or creative career path isn’t for the faint of heart. Challenges will abound, but so many of the artists we speak with couldn’t be happier with their choice. So, we asked them about how they made the decision in the first place.

Connor Legg | Artist – Painter and Ceramicist

When I was young, I enjoyed arts and crafts wherever I could find the opportunity. I found it to be a positive outlet for myself. I developed essential skills through the arts, such as creative thinking, problem-solving, observation, and self-value. As I grew up, I better understood the benefits that an artistic path would supply. Read more>>

Frank Torres | Jeweler

Well, I’ve been an artist my whole life. Ever since I could remember, I was drawing at a very young age. I’ve done things like painting, drawing, producing beats, and making jewelry. Also, I never liked the idea of having a “standard” job/career. I fell in love with creating things, being an entrepreneur, and not doing things that are “average”. And once I found an artistic/creative path that was also lucrative, I gave into it! Read more>>

 Josh Feldhake | Filmmaker & Owner of Lethal Hobo Productions LLC

I think I’ve always been a creative person. Originally, I had intended to go into architecture until I was about 16 and had the opportunity to team up with a small group of friends who made short films. Once I saw what could be accomplished with a like-minded, creatively driven group of people after that first informative weekend, I quickly pivoted toward filmmaking. Read more>>

Holly Stringer | CAD/CAM Jewelery Designer

Growing up in Phoenix, I struggled in school. I was a poor test taker, I had trouble memorizing facts and struggled in reading. Fortunately, I had creative parents who were able to share their skills and help encourage me to find crafts that I enjoyed. My Dad was a machinist and my mom, a stay at home parent. My Dad would help my sister’s and I tinker in the garage with different projects. Read more>>

Shawnny Alexandra Roman | Chef & Food Stylist

I pursued an artistic career at Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Arts of Scottdale because I developed a passion for cooking since a young age. I would ask my mom for her recipes because I thought she was the best cook! I would also get a lot of positive feedback from family and friends. I soon found out that there was my potential for growing and being creative in the kitchen because nothing else made me happier than to make people happy with food. It was always gratifying in a humble way. Read more>>

Joseanett Schuetz | Award-Winning Journalist & Publicist

I have always been very creative. I started in the media world when I was a kid. I began recording radio commercials, which introduced me to the world of voice acting. I fell in love with the different ways you could create a story of many characters with just one person. From there, I began learning about producing and all aspects of storytelling. Read more>>

Carly Kade | Author of Equestrian Fiction and Host of the Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast

I pursued a creative career because it’s who I am at the core. Ever since I was a little cowgirl, I’ve been obsessed with horses and horse stories. As I grew up, that love never waned; it only grew stronger. So, I decided to write horse books for grownups. Read more>>

Kristal C. Coles | Artist

I don’t remember a time when art wasn’t a part of my life. Drawing and creating wasn’t something I discovered or ‘tried one day.’ It’s just always been there. And I have the artist’s bump to prove it! As a young adult I allowed other things in my life to take priority out of necessity but could still never relegate my passion of creating to a hobby. Read more>>