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.

Leah Sipe | Deputy & Dog Photographer

Actually, I didn’t. I chose to pursue a career in law enforcement – which I love. I’m a full time Deputy in Harris County. I started to realize how much I missed being creative and decided to pickup where I left off seven years ago before I went to the police academy, and started photographing animals again. It’s now my “side gig” along with being a full time deputy. I can certainly say that I don’t know any other police officers who are also dog photographers haha. Read more>>

Abigail Bosley | Abner Hats, Owner

I’ve always been a creative person- I attribute that to my mom. Looking back throughout my life I’ve always been happiest when I’m creating- whether it be through my fashion, spaces in my home or making a meal for my loved ones- creating has always been a part of who I am but always as a hobby. I got my license as a dental hygienist in 2020 and after about a year, it became very clear that I needed to embrace my creative spirit in a more full time way. I truly believe that when you’re doing something you’re meant to do, the doors open just at the right time and that’s exactly how I feel about Abner Hats. Read more>>

Samaria Herbert | Model & Event Manager

In December of 2018 is when I first started modeling. One of my cousins convinced me to start a new Instagram and start building my modeling portfolio. It was during a time in my life where there were a lot of changes and I wasn’t sure what my goals were or where I was going. All that I knew about the “industry” was what I had seen on America’s Next Top Model and some instagram modeling. I felt out of place but her encouragement kept me going. Read more>>

Lizet Zetino | Hair Stylist

As a child I loved being able to express myself whether it be with painting a canvas or just doing my makeup. It brought me joy. Becoming a stylist was one of the best things I ever did, I knew it would bring me joy as well as the person sitting in my chair. Read more>>

France C | Photographer & Director

I want to be an example to my future kid(s) and my younger cousins/siblings, that you can be successful even if you’re not working a traditional “professional” job. I grew up not having support when it came to going after my artistic abilities. There was a point where I didn’t consider myself creative cause no one ever encouraged me to pursue that dream. When I was 10 years old, I discovered my passion for Photography and found Windows Movie Maker in my old Dell desktop. Read more>>

Angelek Jordan | Human Resource Specialist & Photographer/Crafter

Being able to capture special moments in people lives is my reason why I pursued photography. I love being able to capture photos for people and their different milestones in life, whether it is maternity photos, yearly family Christmas photos or graduation photos. I am a hype man photographer, while taking pictures, I want you to enjoy the experience and also feel comfortable during the session. It excites me to have loyal clients as well, it just makes me feel as if I am doing something right behind the camera. Read more>>

Zoya Tejani Dhanani | COO of Almas Tejani

I’ve always appreciated the arts — not just because my family has always been professionally and personally involved, but also through my experiences traveling from a young age. India especially left an impact on me since I visited almost every year since I was a kid. It made me appreciate beauty in unconventional spaces and exploring the markets opened up my eyes to a new realm. Read more>>

B. Music | Producer & Artist

Music has always been a passion of mine. Started at the age of 15 writing and producing been doing it for 10 plus years. It has been a way to express my feelings my pain my joy and also a way to talk about things i see in the world and my community. Read more>>

Chanel Drip | Musical Artist & Songwriter

Since I was a young girl I have always been a poet, and author. I have always found an emotional release every time I created something new! There are videos of me when I was around six or seven years old and I was rapping to Missy Elliot‘s song “Bossy”, Fergie’s song “Glamorous” and more! So you could say I have always had a deep love for music and especially performing. Read more>>

Ant Morgan | AntMuteMorgan | Spoken Word Artist and Content Creator

1. God -This is the path God made for me. I’m doing his work through my art. 2. For myself -This is what I’m supposed to do. 2. Freedom (Financial-freedom included) -Feed up with big evil institutions using their racism, bias, and negative power to take advantage. a. I’ve been on the wrong side of justice multiple times. From a racist University violating my rights, breaking contracts, and wrongfully expelling me. b. A former director violated the employment contract to terminate me. 3. To inspire -If my art inspires, I am grateful for that as well. Read more>>