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.

Matthew Oneil | Music Producer

I pursued an artistic career because music has always been a powerful force in my life. Growing up, I played music constantly and found joy in its ability to evoke emotions and connect people. However, I initially struggled with the decision to pursue it professionally. I tried my hand at architecture, thinking it would offer stability and financial success. Plus I had lived in Germany and seen so much history, it made sense. Read more>>

Robert Gaines | President, Hidden Shelf Publishing House & writer/editor

As long as I can remember, my mind was always thinking, searching, questioning … it never slowed down. Of course, when I told my dad I wanted to be an artist when I grew up, he answered without hesitation, “Son, artists starve.” Quietly, I turned to writing. Read more>>

Andrew Collin’s | Music Artist & Content Creator

I had a vision I seen myself rapping on stage in front of a large crowd and at that time i had never been to a studio or performed so when I woke up I still remembered the song I was performing in my vision and I wrote it word for word and i haven’t looked back since then that was ten years ago and now I’m performing every chance I get and pursuing music as a career. Read more>>