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.

Michelynn Hollister

From my early childhood, I was immersed in a world of creativity, tracing horse pictures onto paper and diving into a kaleidoscope of mediums, from pencils and charcoal to mesmerizing shadow patterns, inks, watercolors, oil and acrylic painting, and even the captivating realm of fluid painting. In the past 10-14 years, I ventured into a new realm of creative exploration as I delved into crafting intricate-themed cake and cupcake decorations – transforming cake into a canvas of wonder! Read more>>

 Sadie Trigg | Tattoo Artist

I’ve been an artist of some form or another my whole life. For a long time, Theatre was my main focus and I have a degree in acting, over a decade of performance history, and an amazing artistic community across the world to show for it. What I’ve always loved about theatre and what I now love about tattooing is the collaborative energy, the creativity, and the intimacy and vulnerability of it. Tattooing is the only thing I’ve ever done that perhaps has even more of those qualities than theatre does. Being able to create one-on-one with a client to help make their dreams come true is a gift and an honor. When someone comes to me for a tattoo, whether it’s a silly pop-culture reference or a deeply meaningful memorial piece, they are putting their body and an aspect of their life in my hands. That’s a level of trust that I take very seriously. I know how important my tattoos are to my life and my identity, so I could not be more grateful that I get to help other people decorate their bodies. I’ve always said my favorite thing about theatre is the connection with the audience. It makes sense, then, that my favorite thing about tattooing is the connection with my amazing clients. Read more>>

Stephen Gnoza | Video Editor and Producer

Storytelling is something I have been attracted to in various forms since I was a kid. Whereas other kids played sports, I tried to convince my cousins to be actors in short movies I’d make with my parents’ camera. Whereas other kids played shoot-em-up videos games, I loved to play Japanese RPGs, like Final Fantasy, which were rich on story. When I was 16, I spent an entire summer writing a feature-length screenplay. Read more>>

Carina Chavez | Colorado Wedding & Couples Photographer

I’ve always loved photography but never thought I would be any good at it. Until we took a girls trip to Glenwood Springs and my friend had a brought her extra camera and I got to practice a bit more with them. Not too long after that I got my own and started working with friends to practice my skills. I was still working at my full time job in March 2022 when I started getting contacted for small sessions and I was able to get enough work to go full time October 2022. Read more>>

Leslie Ebert | Landscape designer

With a background in art, graphic design and a passion for the outdoors, I have seamlessly transitioned from being a successful artist to a skilled landscape designer. I bring a unique perspective to my projects, combining my artistic eye for detail with my knowledge of horticulture and design principles. I excel at creating harmonious outdoor spaces that not only enhance the natural beauty of the surroundings but also provide a sense of tranquility and balance. My ability to envision and execute creative and sustainable landscape designs sets me apart in the industry, and I am dedicated to delivering exceptional results that exceed my clients’ expectations. Read more>>

Lauren Lajas | Author. Songwriter. Media Personality

I am in my element when i am in a creative headspace. I am the best possible version of myself in the midst of my art and that is the version of me i want to be day in and day out. That is the version that can best support and inspire the people around me and i won’t settle for anything less. You are given the gifts you have for a reason, don’t let them go to waste because it’s an unorthodox career Read more>>

Lynn Hurley | Contemporary Abstract Realism Artist

After years in the healthcare industry and being a partner in a business, I found myself burnt out from building others’ dreams. I realized it was time to focus on my true passion—art. Art has always been my calling, a source of joy and inspiration throughout my life. Taking the leap to pursue it full-time has been incredibly fulfilling on a soul level. It’s like coming home to a part of myself that had been waiting to be fully expressed. I love the creativity, the freedom, and the ability to connect with others through my work in ways that resonate deeply. This journey into the art world has been the best decision ever, and I feel more alive, inspired, and excited about the future than I could have ever imagined! Read more>>

Mackenzie Martinez | Adventure Elopement & Intimate Wedding Photographer

I’ve been an artist all my life and always knew I thrived whenever I had the opportunity to be creative. I knew how badly I wanted to build a happy and fulfilling life for myself and my family, and I was going to do whatever it took to achieve success in a field that helps me be my happiest, healthiest, most loving, and most authentic self. I’m much better at expressing myself visually than verbally. I’ve loved taking photos since I was a kid, and I’m a fairly sentimental and passionate person, so I naturally found myself drawn to photography. When my daughter was born in late 2021, I was constantly photographing her, like any new mother. My passion for photography skyrocketed from my love for her, and I was particularly drawn to the aspect of photography of capturing precious memories happening in the blink of an eye. We don’t realize how valuable time is until it’s already passed, and this became even more apparent to me watching my daughter grow so quickly. Looking back, I feel even more grateful to have taken so many pictures of her. I’m very fortunate to have preserved so many memories from her earliest days. Read more>>