We asked rising stars from the community one of our favorite questions:  other than deciding to work for yourself, what was the single most important decision you made that contributed to your success?

Renee Rodriguez | Fine Art Photographer

Always believing in my creative vision even when my environment, status or surroundings did not. Read more>>

Jennifer Balkan | Co-Founder & Instructor

We knew that Austin had nothing like an atelier-style school for making realist art. Having been part of the figurative painting community for quite some time, we felt that creating a hug for realist figurative art in town would be very desirable — a place where those making this kind of work could gather, draw, paint and find their people. So we felt fairly confident that starting this business could be a success. Read more>>

Dean Greene | Photography and Videography Services

Making a conscious decision to commit to the. I think that was most critical decision any business owner can make because its easy to get discouraged and retreat. Read more>>