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.

Alison Francis | Cosplayer

Creativity has been a major part of my life. Growing up my parents really created an environment where my creative interests could flourish. I’ve was really involved with dancing, art, and acting especially. I got into cosplay in July of 2021 and fell in love with the art after my first competition. I’ve been pursuing various different avenues related to cosplay since. Read more>>

Robin L. McGee | Theatrical Costume Designer

There is a phrase in theatre, “if you can do anything else…. do it” because it is a hard profession. I tried to do something else, but Theatre and story telling and the people always called me back. No two days are exactly alike and I like that. I also like the problem solving aspect of designing for theatre. Who are these people? What do they need to wear tell the story to the audience? Read more>>

Gordon S. Williams | Award Winning Content Creator, Lamar University Television Studio Operations Manager, Historian, & Latin Dancer

As far as my decision to pursue an artistic/creative career, there was no other choice. All my life, I wanted to work in the media and entertainment industry. In hindsight, when I contemplate all the time in my youth and as an adult, writing poetry, screenplays, consuming and creating content, and watching, learning, and participating in dance…my career and what I have accomplished is representative of those experiences.

Andrew Davis | Filmmaker & Musician

Narrative storytelling and music always excited me. My first project was a graphic novel that I only completed a few pages of. My attempts at illustration didn’t yield good results, so I started thinking about cameras and filmmaking. Read more>>

Devin Holden | Musician

I chose to pursue a career as an artist simply because creating brings me the most joy. It absolutely is a passion of mine, so being able to make money from doing something that I genuinely love doing was a no-brainer for me. Read more>>

Diamond Jackson | Licensed Cosmetologist & Salon Suites Owner

I come from a family of entrepreneurs so the exposure has always been there. As a young girl, I had a dream of becoming a hairstylist and opening my own salon. I was obsessed with braiding my dolls hair and trying different hairstyles on myself, family and friends. I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit and I thoroughly enjoy creating things that I can share with others. Hairstyling for me is and has always been a natural talent, gift from God, and a gateway for me to connect with others. When it came to choosing a career, I went with what came natural to me. Read more>>