We asked some of the city’s leading artists and creatives to tell us about how they decided to pursue an artistic or creative career.  We’ve shared some highlights below.

Lesa Wilson | Actress, Writer & Digital Content Creator

It’s the thing I’ve always been most drawn to. I love creating through my acting work, writing, or content creation. It brings me joy and I believe you should love what you do, so that means a creative field is the best for me. Read more>>

Carol Lipworth | Jewelry Designer

The bottom line is that being creative is in my DNA. I grew up drawing and painting and crafting with my sister, who is also an artist. I can’t remember a time when I didn’t have some creative project in the works. When I was 11, I was asked to do a one-woman (girl) art show of my drawings and paintings at my school. Even when I was working in the corporate world, I would find myself seeking out design work wherever I could find it. When I was finally in a position to change direction, going into a full-time artistic career was the only place I wanted to go. My only regret is not doing it sooner! Read more>>

Marilyn Biles | Artist & Clothing Line Owner

Actually, I can’t remember ever wanting to do anything else. I have worked almost everyday all my life. It’s my passion and my work. Read more>>

Kimberly Walters | Reproduction and Historically Inspired Jewelry Designer & Maker

The reason I decided to pursue an artistic career was all due to a riding habit and a horse. I became interested in horses after a commission for the riding habit which I would wear for my living history events. I had just started participating in 18th century reenacting, and my thought was if I were to wear a riding habit, I must know how to ride a horse as well – right? Sounds about right. Reenacting and living history led me to adopt a gorgeous gray horse, a Tennessee Walker, named Southern Belle. Now, what does that have to do with eventually creating my business selling reproduction and historically- inspired jewelry? Simple. After adopting Southern Belle, unbeknownst to me, she came with severe osteoarthritis in her neck that meant she needed to be retired and receive special care/medicines. Read more>>