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.

Cheyenne Garcia | Nail Artist

I have always been a creative person. From doing little crafts and DIY projects to painting and now doing nails. I love being able to create something out of nothing and being able to look at the finished product and think to myself “Wow! I really did that!” Read more>>

Shawn Swanner | Illustrator, painter, musician, writer & filmmaker

The need to create has always been with me. The talent comes naturally and I have purpose when using it. I am an unsuccessful artist, however I’ll never stop creating because that need will always be there. So if I can’t create for others, I will still create for myself. I am my own harshest critic and also my biggest fan, but I don’t think I’ve ever heard any artist that existed on this planet feel the same way. The need to create is partially because of my over active imagination, but also the relationship I have with my muse. Most artists refer to some person in their life that inspires, however unfortunately that is not the case here. I am completely self taught, self motivated and self inspired. Read more>>

DLVRRY

Music has and will always be my main go to for a lot of things. There’s history with it. People come together with it. A song can change your life. I can articulate things I go through with music. It’s the one thing I know I’m good at doing and I have an incredible passion for it. The sense of fulfillment is unmatched. I pursue it because I feel like whether I’m just having fun or making something meaningful, it’s truly the best way for me to express myself. If someone else relates to my stories or just likes them, that’s just a plus and an honor. Read more>>

Derek Jenkins

I pursued an artist/creative career because I was born to do it. Ever since I was 7 or 8 years old I’ve been into videography, I just didn’t know it yet. I started out making videos on my iPad. I actually created the idea of “Rekless Productions” around then. I’ve always wanted a life outside of the norm. A simple 9-5 desk job wasn’t going to cut it for me so it was that or bust. I strive to be the greatest videographer/photographer in DFW and Texas as a whole. I’m still underground but not for long… Read more>>