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.

Sarah Gearhart | Owner & Creator

Being creative was how I learned to relax and express myself. I started Gearhart Design Co. at the start of Covid when I was stuck at home and couldn’t do much else. My projects brought joy not only to me but to others as well. I love when customers see my products and appreciate them as much as I do. Read more>>

Jenni Giles | Content Creator

I’m a natural creative, so I’ve always had the ability to see things from a different angle. I enjoy creating content because it gives me the opportunity to showcase my natural talents and show things from my perspective. Read more>>

Jazmia Battle | Model, dancer, actress,writer

I pursued the artistic and creative path because I have always felt like inspiring and healing people through an artistic medium is my destiny. My ancestors, orisha, and the Universe blessed me with so many artistic talents and it is my gift back to them to honor those artistic talents by utilizing them to my highest capacity. Read more>>

Shanese Shields | Reality Star, Writer, Director and Producer

Growing up, I was always drawn to creative professions. Shows like “The Cosby Show” and “A Different World” captured my imagination, and I often found myself re-creating or re-writing scenes, immersed in the world of storytelling. Read more>>

Jessica Medina | Actress-Producer-Stuntwoman-

Since I was a little girl.I knew watching Jackie Chan movies the I want to be in action movies.I always was dancing since I was 5. I was a very shy kid. Read more>>

Oni Afryae | Owner and Creative Fiber-Art Specialist of BuddhaFly Wear, LLC

I’d like to say that the artistic /creative career chose me. I’ve always been pretty artsy growing up and it was natural to me. In the early to mid 90’s I was living in Philadelphia just as the Neo Soul wave came through and was surrounded by all kinds of artists. I, my self, had my own funky style and would crochet really unique pieces that other artists would admire. Read more>>

TreVante Williams | Christian R&B/Inspirational Artist

Starting from the age of 11, I always viewed the world differently and I felt that God gave me a gift to give to the world. Read more>>

Jaden Lanfrank | Reality TV Producer & Director

Unscripted television has had a special in my heart since I was a little kid. Ever since I can remember, I’ve always been captivated by people’s stories. I have always been enamored by capturing and highlighting real stories from real people and seeing that unfold on screen. Read more>>

Teneise

I pursued a creative career because that’s the gift that I have. I’ve always been passionate about finding ways to bring my visions to life whether it was through my outfits, little videos I would make, or simply just through my artistic talents. I think it all just works out for me. Read more>>

Laika D. Chery | Illustrator

I did pursue an artistic career because it’s mostly the only thing I love and good at at the same time lol. Creating art allows me to express my emotions and ideas in a way that nothing else can, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to see my concepts come to life and to connect with others through my work. Read more>>