Artistic and creative careers are among the most rewarding, but they also come with unique challenges. We asked some of the city’s best creatives to tell us why they choose to pursue a creative career.

Derwood James Willhite | Songwriter & Entrepreneur

My initial interest and passion to pursue a career in the music industry both as an artist and entrepreneur was likely sparked at a young age. It’s not your typical tale though of how most people start out in music as a kid. Actually, I didn’t even start teaching myself to play an instrument or experience much for live music until I was 17 or so. Read more>>

Lauren Sehgal | Dog Treat Baker & Creator

It was never my intention to have an artistic or creative career. Arts & crafts have always been a passion, and always been a hobby. I never thought I could turn them into something I get to wake up and do everyday. Turning it into my career is a bit of a long story. I began my business in 2021 after graduating University with my Bachelors in Psychology. My goal at that point in time was to buy time, make some money while the world figured out a new normal, and exercise my creativity, all until I applied for grad school. Read more>>

Destiny Humrich | Tattooer and Illustrator

I perused an artistic career because it felt like my only viable option, honestly. Ever since I was a kid I knew that drawing was my favorite activity, and anything art related was my favorite thing to learn about. I always joke that if I didn’t turn out to be an artist when I grew up that I’d be totally screwed because it’s been the only thing to sustain in my life for as long as I can remember. Read more>>

Jeremy Squires | Singer/Songwriter, Writer, Musician, Photographer

I pursued this career/life because it is what I do best. It is all I’ve known for the better part of my 42 years on this planet. I have a lot to say and being a musician gives me the platform to help people as well as help myself grow as a human being. Read more>>

Taylyn Rose | Model

I pursued my modeling career at the age of 10. Slowly building my name I can now say I’m starting to feel successful. I’m doing exactly what I want, meet people and making ART. I’m even published with Katana Magazines! I took it upon myself to really start modeling just in 2021. Society has very disturbing standards for what if considered beautiful or sexy. My goal is to show the world there can be REAL models with REAL beautiful perfect to their imperfections. Read more>>

Adrienne Nelson | Crochet Designer

I don’t remember a time when I haven’t gravitated towards creative pursuits. From floral design, event planning, baking, teaching, and now crochet designs, I have sampled it all. One of the biggest challenges I now face as a creative business owner is spending too much time experimenting and creating new designs! Read more>>

Gary Robbe | Educator and writer

I always had an active imagination, and from a very early age I read everything I could get my hands on. It was a way to escape and it seemed like a logical progression to want to write, to create my own worlds. I was often sidetracked by jobs I chose, and ultimately the career I chose, but whenever I could find the time I would write or become involved in a writing projects that fostered creativity. Read more>>

William Adams | Content Creator : Sir William Goes

I chose to live an unconventional nomadic life after a few different curve balls life threw my way. I learned that life is extremely short and there is no reason to spend it locked in the normal monotonous grind that we are told is they way! Read more>>