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.

John Varvir

Pursuing a 2D animation career was a dream of mine since i was a kid. Constantly watching cartoons and drawing the characters on the tv was a natural habit that not only brought me a lot of happiness but others around me. And it felt even better when my friends and family would request my work because i knew that they weren’t just asking anybody to do it. So this co-enjoyment kept me going and filled my days with just doodling with anything on everything. Then one day someone told me that i could be an animator, and i had no idea what that was at the time. Read More>>

Sammar Shabir

I stumbled my way into it all, completely by accident. It was never really about a career. I didn’t pursue creativity with a polished five-year plan or a tidy brand. I started writing when I was stuck in a bit of a funk, and I could find no way out of it. I didn’t set out to be an author. I set out to make sense of things that refused to make sense any other way. At that time, I only knew one thing: that I could write tolerably well. So I did. Read More>>

Christy Bee

During the few chapters throughout my life when I wasn’t making music, it felt like something was missing, like I wasn’t my fullest, most authentic self. I also love sharing my story and life lessons through music, and I want it to help others through their journey. What also drives me is to inspire others to do what they love, no matter their circumstances or age. It’s never too late to spend time doing what you love to do. Read More>>