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.

Karen Bucknum | Floral Artist & Latina Mom

Shortly after the birth of my first child, I realized that I needed a creative outlet in order for me to be the best version of myself for my son. It was too easy to get sucked into the needs of my newborn and forget all about myself. I decided to learn calligraphy and started my social media page (then called A Basic Stroke). Read more>>

Wendy Batts | Founder of Emotional Demonz: Shoe Customizer. Kicks to Kick judgment.

Ive always had a creative inclination, but it wasnt until my brother passed away of an overdoes in July of 2020 that it really went into overdrive. I did a little drawing in high school, but nothing to write home about. After he had passed, drawing was my outlet for the grief I was experiencing from the loss. Read more>>

Creighton Evans Evans | Rosebay Vocalist and Rhythm Guitarist

It’s a passion for us. The energy we put in our music is reflective of the devotion we have towards expressing ourselves authentically. Music is more then a hobby for all of us. We all have a history or capability of being solo musicians, so to bring together so much fervor and excitement for music in one band is an incredible thing. Read more>>

Gus Reynolds | Graphic Artist

I feel so grateful to be able to pursue a creative-minded career. The truth is, I have always had a lot of trouble working in jobs that don’t give me the opportunity to be at least somewhat creative. There is a process for me behind creating any sort of art or design that I have totally fallen in love with. Read more>>

Kylee McKinney | Local artist and designer

I pursued art as my career because it has been something I’ve dedicated my life to. I began like everyone else doing art class in elementary school and it has inspired me since. The ability to create my ideas into physical manifestations is exhilarating – there is so much power behind the ability to create imagery, one that I feel people sometimes forget. Read more>>

Christopher Lind | Cinematographer & Gaffer

It’s a funny story actually. I had no idea what I wanted to be growing up, but I was always a very passionate person. It was in high school that I discovered I had a love for show business tho. I got really into Professional Wrestling around my freshman year, and for some reason that just clicked with me. Read more>>

Andrew Ellingson | Artist and Jack of all Trades

The artistic path chose me! Ever since I was a little guy, the act of creating anything captivated my imagination and truly brought the most joy. Early on I started connecting the dots and saw that there was art in everything. From the way you conduct yourself to every other aspect imaginable. Read more>>