Artists and creatives face innumerable challenges given that their career path often doesn’t come with a playbook, a steady paycheck or any form of safety net. It’s definitely not easy and so we asked a few of the artists and creatives we admire to talk to us about why they chose to pursue an artistic or creative career.

Lizette Martinez | Creator

I’ve always liked doing arts and crafts. I remember making birthday invitations for my cousins birthday parties when I was a teen, loved preparing for a party and just creating things. I have also loved wearing t-shirts; band shirts, school shirts and sports team shirts. So what better way to start my small business than to create t-shirts. Read more>>

Stormie Holmes | Professional Dancer & Choreographer, Blogger and Entrepreneur

I chose to pursue an artistic or creative career because it made the most sense. Growing up, I was always drawn to the arts. Whether it was dance, choir, or art, it gave me so much joy and fulfillment that I couldn’t find it elsewhere. I am a creative individual by nature. I look at every aspect of my life as an opportunity to be creative. The fact that I can make a living from doing it is just a bonus. I think as a child I knew that I wanted to be in the arts, even if I wasn’t sure what at the time. Read more>>

Chad Barbier | Mad Chad: Artist & Singer

Being creative, to me, is one of the rarest yet most honest and beautiful characteristics that a person can have. There’s so many forms of art and ways to create, and there’s no right or wrong way. Making something from the heart can help people understand you as a person better. It can be hard to let your self be vulnerable and finding the time to do so, but I encourage everybody to try some type of art. You might just learn something about yourself as well. Read more>>

Natalie Thomas | Photographer

Memories by Nat Photography was founded on the basis that I enjoy capturing images that preserves the moment. Whether it’s a milestone birthday, a commemorative moment like a graduation or family pictures, the memories from the moment is not to be forgotten. Read more>>

Micah McBee | Makeup Artist

I have always loved art. When I was a little girl, I would sit for hours and mix paints, watching as the colors would change and entering into my own world. This form of escape quickly became my place of refuge and favorite form of therapy. In high school, I found a passion for art. Creating became an outlet for me. When life was difficult, I could escape in my art and lose track of time entirely. Read more>>