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.

Holli May Thomas | Artist

I knew I was a creative growing up. My box was not like the others and I realized at a young age that I would need to color outside the lines in order to be happy. Read more>>

Nikole Denise | Comedian

I tell people all the time I did not choose comedy, comedy chose me. I’ve been a hairstylist since 1997, and that was always my passion. But at a time where I had to quit my career and went through a short bout of postpartum depression I began to hear comedy in my head. I would hear what I’m saying, and the laughs. I thought I was loosing it until I told my sister. My sister was like “Nikki you’re funny just do it” And this is how comedy chose me and we are in love… lol Read more>>

Shaniqua Baker | Artist/Creator-Colorful Shay’s

I am currently a Licensed Master Social Worker who helps people with their needs and barriers to medical care. At times, this causes me to consume my mind with my patient’s concerns. During the pandemic, I worked a hybrid schedule going between the clinic and home on various days. This caused me to have a difficult time separating home and work life. I noticed I did not have a way to decompress from my day. Read more>>

Jaivron Joseph | Photographer

I pursued being a photographer because me being surrounded by artistic individuals already definitely inspired me to want to photograph my friends that were models and capture the beauty all around me. Read more>>

Kringe | Music artist

I whole heartedly believe this is what I was made to do. Music is so powerful and I don’t think people understand how much it actually affects the world. This is the most powerful form of expression. This stuff truly helps people and that’s all I want to do. Help change peoples lives for the better. Read more>>

De’Ante Roberts | R&B Artist, Songwriter, Label Owner, Distributor, & Business Mogul

To be completely honest, music has always been a huge part of my life. I grew up in the church playing the drums alongside my mother who has played the piano for most of her life. She was the real cultivator. She identified what I had within me and pushed me to purse it. I was always brilliant as a child. I had dreams of being a doctor. I never really thought any of what I do now would be possible. Read more>>