We asked some of the most creative folks we know to open up to us about why they chose a creative career path. Check out their responses below.

Alexandria Gates | Psychic Medium & Artist

Fortunately in my life I was surrounded by creatives, at a young age I started to dive into the creative world to find what my niche so to speak would be and found myself involved with some great communities. Those communities taught me that creative expression is not only incredibly healing in terms of mental health, however there are opportunities behind every corner that help expand the sense of community and growth. While I never really anticipated utilizing my creativity for a living, when I became disabled I was thankful because it gave me an outlet to focus on while my body was getting used to not being able to perform in the ways it normally would. As basic, and unoriginal it sounds art has saved me in more ways than I can recall, and without it I don’t think I would be in the position I am in today. Read more>>

Mair | Artist and Songwriter

Oh, I couldn’t not! Having begun playing music at the age of three, it has never been something I could put down. I am either always listening, playing, writing, singing, or thinking about music… And, I wouldn’t want it any other way! Read more>>

Andrew Peschong | Photographer

Growing up, I was always drawn to a few clear things; the outdoors, computers, and music. Through high school, I naturally pursued these avenues but wasn’t really sure why. Perhaps I was too young to think more about the big picture and simply did what felt right. I spent all my time outdoors camping, skiing, or anything I could get my hands on. I built computers and was on them in any free time I had in which I wasn’t outside. In my high school and college, the band program was extremely well-regarded and a popular activity for the majority of folks – it’s what you did. So I played lead trumpet in each aspect of the band – marching, concert, and jazz. Little did I know what I was getting myself into to start a lifelong creative passion. Read more>>

Sophie Fernandez | Artist, Muralist, Maker of Stickers

I was always creative, even when I was little. I definitely was privileged enough to have very supportive parents who encouraged my artistic side and always supported my dream to be an artist. I don’t know of a time when I wasn’t creating or making something and if I did stop making things, it was probably a very challenging time in my life. As an adult, it only felt right to be in a creative field, and getting my BFA with an emphasis in painting solidified that, While in college, I was surrounded by creative people that supported and encouraged the dream of being an artist. During my time at Metropolitan State University of Denver, I was able to be hired as a muralist and sold artwork while attending. This sparked something inside of me that really never died out, I think it was the motivation to be able to truly see a way to make being an artist a solid career. Read more>>