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.

Matthew McCleskey | Animator & YouTuber

I chose to pursue a creative career because I have always been a creative person. Growing up I made so many different types of videos, art projects, and music that being creative became part of who I was. I made stick figure animations, stop-motion Lego videos, and so much more. All of these were posted to YouTube at some point, so I feel like I have always been on a trajectory leading to where I am today. Read more>>

Josiah Jean | Professional Wrestler

I pursued my professional wrestling career because it’s been my dream since i was a child. Many people give up on their childhood dreams due to either growing out of it or outside forces pulling them out of that dream. I never gave up on that dream so i wanted to go all in. Read more>>

Pierre “CiinderFella” Davison | Singer & All-Around Entertainer

I wanted to pursue an artistic or creative career because I always felt it was something I was supposed to do from how I carry myself manner wise like interacting with people to what interest me and gets me up in the morning. I started my artistic career with singing in my great grandmothers church and have done everything imaginable to be in my own moment of spotlight, some intentional others not so intentional. Read more>>