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.

Kelsey Templeton | Photographer

I love being able to express things in a way that isn’t just words. I am way more of a visual person than verbal. Photography has allowed me to put emotions into a visual perspective and help share my love for nature and the outdoors with others. Nothing makes me happier than spending time with people outside and being a part of all the intimate moments that come along with it. Read more>>

Bobbie Stephens | Photographer

I never thought I would pursue an artistic career; before I ever started doing photography, I was in the US Army for seven years be for my life had a turn. After supporting CBP ( custom border patrol )down in Texas, I ended up getting leg problems, and long story short, I had to choose, get significant surgery on both legs or take an MEB ( Medical evaluation board), so I took the MEB and got out. So after I made my decision, I had to think of what I wanted to do when I got out. Then one day, I talked to a good mentor, and he brought up the idea of becoming a photographer. Read more>>

Alena Jensen | Fine Art, Wedding and Lifestyle Travel Photographer

I’m not sure it was ever something of question for me – I was never the type to excel in math or science in school, I am still a very educated person, however my heart has always been drawn to taking art classes and learning how to do things in creative ways. When I don’t create I notice my mood changes, creativity has just always been installed inside of me, so pursuing a creative career only made sense. Read more>>

Eric and Joanna Johnson | Sweetheart City Signs, Art and Graphics

We both grew up in creative families. Eric’s parents have owned a graphics studio for over 50 years and my parents operated a custom design-build firm for decades. When Eric and I met for the first time, it was in the art room at school, and when we reconnected several years later, we chatted that we should create a project together someday. Read more>>