Artistic and creative careers are among the most rewarding, but they also come with unique challenges. We asked some of the city’s best creatives to tell us why they choose to pursue a creative career.

Nicole Michelle | Makeup Artist, Loctician & Chandler

I first pursued an artistic career in modeling. This career pretty much chose me due to my stature. I was one of those teenagers who everyone told “you should be a model!” At that time I loved playing basketball, and other sports… then modeling found me on the basketball court. Read more>>

Imani Hassan | Author

I pursued a career in writing because it was my calling. I had always struggled with verbally expressing myself as a child, but I always found refuge and comfort in libraries, books, and writing. It became my superpower and helped me to express myself in a positive and empowering way. Read more>>

Evenny | Multi faceted Singer songwriter

I’ve always gravitated towards creative outlets and fully expressing myself through an art. Music has been a huge integral part of my life and wanting to create music of my own is a fulfilling journey. From capturing specific moments in my life to conveying shared experiences that others can relate to, has always been a true passion. Read more>>

Monroe Pfiefer | Screenwriter & Director

I’ve always been a person that lives in my imagination. I dream in vivid color, think about the most impossible things all day and imagine myself in world’s that do not exist lol. Being a creative is in my blood because I was created by The greatest Creaotor, I couldn’t do anything else. There really was no other option for me, I just wish I knew earlier in my life that I could make my dreams a reality. Read more>>

Solus Senpai | Singer/Songwriter

I started singing in the typical fashion most black children did. I started in church, my first solo was in “shake the devil off” on the children’s choir. After that, I graduated to singing the songs that I heard off the movie “The Temptations” (with an emphasis on David Ruffin’s parts). Read more>>

Laura Strickland | Fiber Artist and Quilt Pattern Designer

I’ve have been creative for as long as I can remember. The creative process is healing. When you are working through a difficult situation, season, or aspect of your life, being able to create is extremely therapeutic. Also, according to Jewish docutrine, being creative is seen as one of the highest forms of worship. I believe being creative draws me closer to God and is an expression of my gratitude for the many blessings and gifts He has lavished on me. Read more>>

Michelle A Daniel | Executive Producer & Screenwriter

Growing up, I was the only child; my imagination expanded far beyond what I could have imagined. And TV was my best friend. Read more>>

Shanda (ShowCaseShanda) Reed | Hair Care and Luxury Extensions Specialist & Cosmetology Instructor

I pursued and artistic and creative career, because I felt like it fits me as a person. I am not the type of person that likes to be “Put inside the box,” My creative mindset is always evolving and thinking outside the box so I knew I needed a career that will allow me to do the same, Having a restricted career, impacts my growth personally and professionally. Read more>>