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.

Raheem Jackson

I decided to pursue a more artistic/creative career because I’ve always had a very creative mindset and artistic mind but didn’t really have anyway to display it. I couldn’t draw or paint but I found I’m able to showcase my mindset and process with art through photos and videos. Read More>>

Raphael Habeeb

If I had to pin it down, I don’t think it was ever really a choice—it was just the only thing that made sense. For me, creating is about building a vibe, capturing an energy, and putting pieces together to make something entirely new out of nothing. Read More>>

Eric Zehnder

Once a pastor looked me in the eye, as if he saw something deep. He asked me, “Would you rather be ordinary with no pains, or extraordinary with pains?” I didn’t hesitate: I wanted to be extraordinary. Do not ask for an easy life, ask for a great life. My father and I were two master builders in our family. Read More>>

Olivia Graves

I’ve always been a creative person, but I never really set out thinking, “I’m going to become a photographer.” Looking back, it feels like photography found me. Years ago, I won my first camera through an Instagram giveaway, and it almost felt like the universe was giving me a little nudge toward something I hadn’t discovered yet. Read More>>

Houston Patton

I chose a creative career because I want to enjoy life to the fullest. When I realized Jesus was calling me to be a musician, I felt empowered, motivated, and capable to be a musician. In general, artist or not. Read More>>

Amren Daniels

I pursued a creative career because creating has always been one of the few things that made me feel the most like myself. Music gives me a way to process my thoughts, tell my story, and connect with people who may be going through similar experiences. Read More>>