We asked some of the city’s leading artists and creatives to tell us about how they decided to pursue an artistic or creative career. We’ve shared some highlights below.

Hector Sector | Cardboard Artist

Main reason why I’m making this a career for myself is because it’s what gives me my drive. The arts are what keep me alive and what give me purpose for doing what I do. I love being able to make the art that I want and I love sharing my work with viewers who love my work as much as I do. I also glad I can share my message of accessibility in the art world with my art. Read more>>

Maya Rose Weiss | Jewelry Designer/Artist

Ever since I can remember I have always been creative and couldn’t imagine a life without making art. I grew up in New York State, and began experimenting with weaving, knitting, crocheting and braiding, as soon as I could figure out how to guide my fingers to create forms from fibers and natural materials. I have always been captivated by the natural world and deeply inspired by the alchemy of fibers, intention and the human hand. Read more>>

Harry Peluso | Videographer

After recently downloading instagram and being exposed to awe inspiring sports action videos in sixth grade, all I had wanted that Christmas was a GoPro to replicate the wonders I had just seen. My dream came true, and as soon as I unwrapped the packaging, I threw the micro SD card into its slot and began filming anything from walking my dog on my skateboard to my middle school basketball practices. Read more>>

Zelda Pacheco | Crochet is MY Therapy

I started crocheting when I turned 40 yrs old. I went through a horrible break up. My friend threw me a hook, and a ball of yarn. I went on Youtube, learned how to make a chain, and it was all down hill after that.
I realized crocheting was very therapeutic, and gave me such gratification when completing a project. It’s also a lot cheaper than therapy. Read more>>

Abbey Olson | Hairstylist & Extension Specialist

While in high school I enrolled in the connecting hairstyling course, I enjoyed playing with hair and thought it would be nice to get some graduating credits doing just that. I quickly realized the integration of a creative career path for my future. There was suddenly an option where hard work and education was connected with something organic and artistic. I knew that was where my heart wanted to be. Read more>>

Grace Ventura | Artist/Color Alchemist and Transformational Wellness Coach

Here is an elaborated and edited version of your response about pursuing an artistic or creative career: There is a deep, soul-stirring satisfaction that emerges through the creative process. It is a wellspring of healing, expression, and pure inspiration. When I engage in my artistic work, I feel a profound sense of wholeness – as if all aspects of my nature are harmoniously utilized. Read more>>

Julie Puma | Full Professor and artist

I chose a career in the arts because I knew it was something I was good at and passionate about. I really struggled in high school and my undergraduate studies but I always exceeded in the arts. I knew that I would be successful as a painter and also loved teaching. This path has served me well as I am now a full professor and have a thriving successful studio practice. Read more>>