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.

Nicholas LoFaro | Metal Sculptor

I have lived a creative life, so I wanted to pursue an artistic career. When painting or sculpting with clay, I always approached projects with enthusiasm and creativity, my narratives always cryptic and hidden. In sculpture and welding, I am able to feel complete freedom to create 3 dimensional narratives, ones that the viewer can observe and interpret. Read more>>

Jamie Swan | Artist & Jewelry Designer

I have always found a thrilling joy to see my visions come to life in a variety of creative endeavors. Whether is be jewelry, photography or design, seeing the end result of an initial thought and the process within it, is truly a gratifying experience. Read more>>

Salvatore Viviano | Visual Artist & Curator

It just happened. I ‘wasn’t supposed to’, I was studying law and literature in Italy. Later, I found myself in Paris working in the entertainment and fashion business, and then in the contemporary art business in Vienna… Read more>>

Samantha Ragnow | Floral Designer

I was interested in the arts at such a young age. Deep down, I always knew an artistic path was the key to unlocking my creative desires; I was incredibly blessed to have had the opportunity of ‘grandmas art classes’ when I was young to propel and sustain my creativity in which my imagination was able to run wild and supported in trying new things and techniques which encouraged my inquisitive nature of floral design. Read more>>

Alex Yang | Digital creator & Photographer & Filmmaker

I’ve always been a visual person. I spent almost my entire 20s in Europe, especially in Italy. The rich cultural heritage and my trips to all those amazing museums in Italy and all over Europe definitely shaped my knowledge and taste for aesthetics. I’ve always loved films, TV series and photography. Read more>>

Amber Brummer | Owner, High Country Storytelling

Embarking on an artistic or creative career has been a personal journey rooted in self-discovery. From a young age, I was drawn to creativity and artistic expression, finding solace and fulfillment in activities that allowed me to explore my imagination. However, during my formative years, I held the perception that pursuing a creative path might not lead to financial stability or success. Read more>>