Artists and creatives face innumerable challenges given that their career path often doesn’t come with a playbook, a steady paycheck or any form of safety net. It’s definitely not easy and so we asked a few of the artists and creatives we admire to talk to us about why they chose to pursue an artistic or creative career.

Brandon Gonzalez | Singer and songwriter

I am pursuing a creative career because I want to show the world my heart and inspire others to follow their dreams. Being a singer and songwriter has allowed me to channel my creative energies in the right places, on stage! Read more>>

Tyler Ann | Digital Photographer

Growing up I always knew I wasn’t gonna have a regular job, nor did I want one… I’ve always been a creative kid, It just took me awhile to realize what field I really wanted to explore. My whole life I surrounded it by music and once I reached high school I fell in love with photography but I also still focused on my musical aspirations like wanting to become a singer. Read more>>

Michael Flores | Musician & Artist

Much of my creative sentiment came to be through a resistance to my experiences with the standardization of the school system, and how it can crush individuality. I felt that a job I could get straight out of the education pipeline would be nutritionally poor for my soul. Read more>>

Angelica Spears | Professional Painter and Tattoo Apprentice

I chose an artistic career because I start to lose my mind when I’m not creating or working around other creative people. Art makes me feel fulfilled and happy. It drives me to become a better better person and to always have a goal to work towards. I also pursued an artistic career because I love the community that comes with it. Read more>>

Stephanie Berve | Art Teacher and Creative

Like other creatives I was drawn to art at an early age. As I got older my artistic ability was something that distinguished me from my peers so I continued to practice. I could always pick up a pencil and draw what I saw almost exactly as it was. I found joy in creating, in thinking differently and learning new artistic processes. Read more>>

Bethany Schuck | Photographer

Creating art has always brought me so much joy. At a young age, I would use my journal as a means to catch moments. Later I got my first disposable camera and I started taking pictures of those I loved to preserve memories. It always felt important and weighty to remember things in writing or in pictures. Read more>>