Why they do what they do

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.
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>>
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>>
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>>
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>>
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>>
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>>
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>>