Deciding to pursue an artistic or creative career path isn’t for the faint of heart. Challenges will abound, but so many of the artists we speak with couldn’t be happier with their choice. So, we asked them about how they made the decision in the first place.

April Batista | Houston based Artist

I have always had an artistic soul since I was a child. I couldn’t wait for art class. There is something so satisfying about getting your hands dirty. Whether it be pottery, oil pastels, writing or acrylic. As a teenager, my mind was elsewhere and I no longer fed my artistic appetite. It wasn’t until I became a wife and mother that I found my way back to it. My son is non verbal and has autism. I’ve had to put jobs and careers on hold to do therapies, meetings and doctor visits. I started painting again just for my own mental health. As well as to have something for myself. To give me my sense of self back. Once I started posting my creations online, people started offering to purchase them and this is how my business got started. Out of the purity of doing something I’ve always loved. Read more>>

Lindsey Johnson | Jewelry Artist

I have always enjoyed artistic endeavors but never considered them an actual career path for myself. I went to school for and am trained as a Geologist and have worked in that industry for 8 years. After being laid off and finding the successive job roles uninspiring, I decided to make a go of my small jewelry business; to get in there and really give it a good try. Once I realized that advertising actually worked and I started making more sales than ever, I decided to continue with it and see if I could really make a living through my work. It’s been tough and slow and there are some months that I wonder if I’ll need to get another “real” job, but this job is so fun and interesting and makes me want to get out of bed in the morning. Read more>>

John Edwards | Artisan & Rosary Maker

I’ve always had an interest in creative endeavors such as writing , sketching , photography , etc. After suffering a traumatic hand injury and going through multiple surgeries along with the injury causing a resurgence of my PTSD symptoms , I found that creating rosaries not only helped me relearn how to use my hand again but also brought me clarity and peace of mind Read more>>

Dorina Carrillo | Communications Professional & Life Style Blogger

Ever since I was young, I have been a free spirited an animated person. I am an only child, so coming up with creative ways to stay entertained and get other’s attention, has always been my thing! I also started dancing ballet at an early age, so my love and appreciation for the visual and performing arts has always had a special place in my heart. As I got older, I knew I wanted to study communications and pursue a creative career. While I was in college at the University of St. Thomas, I had the opportunity to intern at an advertising agency where I learned a lot about public relations, creative writing, and video production. Read more>>