Deciding to pursue an artistic or creative career path isn’t for the faint of heart. Challenges will abound, but so many of the artists we speak with couldn’t be happier with their choice. So, we asked them about how they made the decision in the first place.

Josh Nathan | Composer and Music Director

When I was quite young and found out I could study music in college the whole perspective changed for me. I wasn’t a bad student or anything, but to say I was disinterested in traditional studies would be an understatement…So in some ways I’ve gotten lucky to be able to follow this path of music – support from my wife, family and friends the whole way – and I do feel like if you stick with it long enough you can find a lane to live in. Creatives often work multiple gigs, and figuring out ways to make it all work is a continuous challenge with a family now but it’s still fun. Read more>>

Alea Johnson | Freelance Model

This may sound cheesy to some, but a creative career chose me! When I first began modeling over 7 years ago, I had no idea I even wanted to be a model. Did I have the qualities of a model? humbly, yes but did I ever dream of being a model? the answer is no. It wasn’t until and old hairstylist of mine presented a modeling opportunity to me that I realized that I had some level of interest in being a model. From there the rest is history. There is a certain type of confidence boost I get from being in front of the camera that’s like no other. Read more>>

Patrice Johnson | Multi-hyphenate & Owner of BLANKSLATE Creative

The arts have always been a major part of my life. From pirouettes in ballet class to belting out tunes in band to singing in the church choir, creativity has been a constant part of me. Theatre’s captivating narratives and the sheer beauty of every artistic expression have enthralled me since childhood. It wasn’t just entertainment; it was a portal to new worlds, a wellspring of emotion, and a way to understand and experience life on a profound level. Read more>>

Darina Eid | Actress & Dancer

I’ve never had a singular “awakening” that pushed me towards an artistic career; it feels more like this path was ingrained in me from my earliest memories. I’ve always known deep down that I was destined to be an artist. It’s as if there was an inherent certainty about it that I carried with me from the beginning. As I grow older, I find myself increasingly admiring the boldness—or perhaps what some might call “delusion”—of my younger self. There was never any doubt or hesitation; I simply knew this was my calling. I think the reason I pursued something that felt so intrinsic to my being is because I understood that if I didn’t at least try, I would carry regret with me for the rest of my life. Read more>>

Horace Shivers | Sports Photojournalist

The most important factor behind being a professional sports photojournalist is the ability to capture the decisive moment. This involves not only technical skills such as mastering the camera settings and understanding lighting but also having a deep knowledge of the sport being covered. Knowing the game allows a photojournalist to anticipate key moments and position themselves to capture the action, emotion, and context that tell a compelling story. Additionally, adaptability, quick decision-making, and the ability to work under pressure are crucial in the fast-paced environment of sports photography. Read more>>

Tiyana Cross | Freelance Graphic Designer/ Marketing Specialist

I pursued a creative career because I genuinely enjoy making my visions come to life. I didn’t know the gifts I had until I got to college, but once I discovered that I was a creative, my life changed. It’s been times I was going through something and all I had was my creative gifts as my outlet. Seeing what I envision in my head come to life keeps me going and gives me the confidence to take risks and try new things. Read more>>