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.

Avery Lockridge | Mother, Teacher, Photographer, & Yogi

I’m a country girl, born and raised in a small town in north central Texas, I love being outdoors and spending quality time with my family. From a young age, I was interested in art and photography; I also had a passion for teaching, so I obtained a degree in Human Growth and Development and Family Studies with a minor in Psychology from Texas Tech University. Read more>>

Johanna Telander | Singer-Songwriter& Composer/Lyricist

From my earliest memories, I’ve been drawn to the arts, finding solace and joy in music, dance, and storytelling. While I’ve occasionally considered other career paths, such as teaching or psychology, nothing compares to the deep sense of fulfillment and connection I feel when immersed in creative expression- it’s never been a choice for me, as much as it’s the essence of me, and something I can’t walk away from, even should I want to. Read more>>

Matt Banzer | Filmmaker, Photographer, & Marketer

I’ve always been a creative person, even as a child.
I really wish there was a moment I could look back on when I saw a piece of art, movie, or song and say, “Wow, I want to do this now!” But the reality is that my artistic leaning has always been there. Film has always been my passion. It encompasses the best of both visual and auditory arts. Film takes many forms, from a narrative story, a documentary, an experimental art piece, a music video, or something silly to put together with friends. Read more>>

Diego Saldate | Tattoo Artist

There was always something I loved about art. Every time I sat down to draw it was like the world fell away. I had already worked various jobs in my life, and while they were enjoyable and I’d have fun doing them, everything felt like punishment. As if I had to constantly force myself to get up and do it. Work shouldn’t feel like it. Work should be something you don’t even notice. Something you truly love, and that’s super hard to find. I didn’t really have another choice since nothing else felt right. Read more>>