We asked some of the city’s leading artists and creatives to tell us about how they decided to pursue an artistic or creative career. We’ve shared some highlights below.

Karah Katherine Lemieux | Cosmetologist and Owner at KarahKay Hair Design LLC

I pursued an artistic career after a lot of self-reflection. I have always had a very artistic soul – I literally want to do all of the things – painting, mixed media, macrame, upcycling furniture – anything I can use my creative energy for. Fortunately, I spent years in the nursing field and that was very demanding, both physically and mentally, which helped me realize that although I felt fulfilled in a sense of it being such a rewarding career, doing good and caring for others, I felt like there was something missing. Read more>>

Lindsey Wonder | Tattooer & Stained Glass Artist

It has always been a goal of mine to have an artistic career, probably before I even knew what a career or a goal was. As a child the only answer I ever had to “what do you want to be when you grow up?” was “an artist” and I am very lucky to come from a family who supported this dream, rather than telling me I needed to pursue a “real job”. I remember being in elementary school in the early 90’s and seeing an ad on the TV for an art college, calling them and hearing them chuckle when I answered “what year will you be graduating from high school?” with “2003”. Read more>>

Dede Milkey | Bringing Color and Life into Peoples Homes and Hearts

Well, as my husband always says, “You can’t help yourself”. When I was younger I was quite shy. I use to be able to express myself through arts and crafts, coloring, painting, sewing, writing poetry, making cloth dolls with blond or brunette hair and blue or brown eyes, etc. It felt rewarding to have someone appreciate something that I would create. Read more>>