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.

Jerome Cabeen | Professional Photographer

My father was a successful architect and my mother was a wonderful painter, artistic creativity runs in our family. Personally, it has been a vehicle to express my view of our world and to tell a story. There is literally no boundaries or end to what art, and in my case, photography, can express that words cannot. Read more>>

DeejayDaDon | Jack of all trades

To be honest I think it chose me. Since a kid I’ve had a love for music. If I wasn’t learning usher new choreo i was rapping a little Wayne song, dancing in a talent show or listening to my older brother spit who rapped at the time. I mean I’ve modeled and done photography. At this point I am not only a jack of all trades but an artist of all sorts. So the past 2 years I made it my business to take it to another level. Read more>>

Eric Lauer | Singer/Songwriter

I began playing guitar at 11 years old and writing songs around 15. At the time I wasn’t thinking much about a career, I just loved music (and creating) as a form of self expression. As time went on it became a bigger part of my life so I’ve kept at it. Read more>>

Bereniz Velazquez | Graphic Designer, Business Woman and Entrepreneur

Ever since I was a little kid, seeing my dad whom was a tattoo artist and muralist, it always intrigued me to create amazing work. Ever since, my dream was to be in the creative field, of course as I got older I became familiar with the different branches that could be considered. The one that i felt the most connected too was Graphic Design. Being able to design visual art to represent, unity, peace, diversity and more through different types of design platforms brings me happiness and joy. Read more>>

Gage Davis | Tattooer

I got my first tattoo when I was in the Coast Guard which is somewhat built into their tradition. I fell in love with everything about it. The tradition, music playing in the shop, the personalities in the shop. It was all so cool and with a previous artistic background I knew I needed to pursue this. Read more>>