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.

Willie Wallace | Culinary artist and Restaurant Consultant

God has given us all gifts and we are here to create. I’ve been fortunate enough to live a life full of opportunities to use my gifts. From playing professional basketball overseas to now creating cuisines that an idea is manifested with my hands on to a plate. Feeding someone is one of the most intimate acts love because it can literally change the mood of a person and make their day. I knew that this was my holy grail because I have changed lives. Read more>>

Sienna Maria | Singer, Writer, Actress & Entrepreneur

I pursued an artistic/creative career because I can’t live a life of joy being anything other than an artist. It’s my God given purpose in life. Being a creative is who I am and who I’m meant to be. It would be me denying myself and God if I didn’t. Read more>>

Stacy Suvino | Set Decoration Buyer and Street Photographer

I knew at an early age that I was enamored with art, design, music and film. My parents recognized my curiosity and really helped foster my beginning path through summer art classes, music lessons, dance, etc. Later down the road, I had two ” a ha” moments where I knew I wanted to pursue art as a career. The first was while I was on holiday break in New York City with my family and I encountered the Bergdorf Goodman Holiday Windows for the first time. It was so profound to see art, fashion and design come together to tell a magnificent story behind the glass. Read more>> 

Amber Walker | Yoga Instructor

I first knew I wanted to pursue a career as an aerialist ever since I went to the universal soul circus as a little girl I started off as a cheerleader as a child at 10, did cheerleading for two years during high school, and one semester durning college. I fell off for years and it wasn’t until 2021, when I began my aerial yoga journey. I started doing yoga when I got medically retired from the Navy. I was diagnosed with lupus and a rare neuromuscular disease called myasthenia gravis, I had lost 70% of my mobility and suffered great nervous system and muscular issues because of the illness. Read more>> 

Kyle Allen | Content Creator & Rapper

I pursue a creative due to my love of entertainment. I love to see how you I can take a idea and make it an unforgettable piece of history. Its something that you can call your own and make it authentic to your person. People can get to know me without really having to talk to me. My expression speaks for myself. Read more>>

Amanda Nesbitt | Lifestyle Influencer

I decided to pursue a creative career as a skincare and lifestyle influencer during the pandemic. Working full-time as a therapist can be emotionally intense, so I wanted a way to make extra income while doing something lighter and personally enjoyable. Skincare has always been my go-to way to unwind after a long day, and becoming an influencer allows me to share this passion with others. Through this platform, I can engage in self-care while creating a community focused on wellness and relaxation.” Read more>>