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.

James Diana | Drummer, Percussionist

As with many people who start learning a musical instrument, I think the initial appeal is the joy that it brings the player and audience. That concept, in a weird way, drove the decision to pursue an artistic career. I found that initially I’d play something new or discover a new idea on my instrument and would feel compelled to show people I knew, then they’d have a response to it. Read more>>

Nicole Elliott | Photographer. Wife. Mother. Wild Dreamer.

I was never a good student. I always struggled academically. My mind was not made for Math or Science. Didn’t care too much about History so I could never retain that info. I was super social and loved my peer interactions. School for me was a place to connect with my friends and have fun. Read more>>

Elisha J. Mitchell | Relatable Singer, Songwriter, Author, and Speaker

Would it be cliche to say my creative passion pursued me? Well, so be it.

I enjoy well-crafted words that are written or spoken and music that beckons our inner royalty. However, I didn’t always get the early affirmations I needed and wanted that would nurture my gifts. My voice was relentlessly silenced. Read more>>

Velo | Artist & Entrepreneur

I pursued my career choice because the arts and being creative was a HUGE part of my childhood and it just stuck with me as I grew older. It’s the only way I know how to express my feelings and emotions. Read more>>

Madisen Raymond | Stay at Home Mom & Crochet Artist

Art has been a big part of my life as far as I can remember. I’ve always had a hard time at any job that didn’t allow for some kind of creative or artistic outlet. When I became a stay at home mom, I decided to pursue a side hustle where I could create whatever I wanted, whenever I wanted, and share it with others to help support my family. Read more>>

Denise Bush | Fine Art Photographer

Since childhood I have always had a strong interest in art. My mother always had us doing creative projects. I took art classes throughout high school and attended Moore College of Art, in Philadelphia for 4 years, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Illustration & Graphic Design. Read more>>

Walmir Sparapane | Actor, Performer , Makeup artist and Costume Designer

art saved me. I come from a traditional Italian family, Roman Catholic and art, like movies, TV soap operas, and even music, was where I sought my own education. Artistic education showed me that my imaginary friends were more embossed than those in real life. Read more>>