Artists and creatives face innumerable challenges given that their career path often doesn’t come with a playbook, a steady paycheck or any form of safety net. It’s definitely not easy and so we asked a few of the artists and creatives we admire to talk to us about why they chose to pursue an artistic or creative career.

Emmanuel Lozada | Portrait/Fashion Photographer

I started my photography business around 6 years ago, while I was going to difficult times during my personal life and science career, I started photography as a hobby with the intention of producing videos for the local community until I found the joy, beauty and story in developing portrait and fashion content. I come from a very creative background, my family has been musicians and singers all of their life. Read more>>

Sensei $wank | Advocate, Rap Artist & Author

I want to change the narrative around my hometown Birmingham, Alabama. I pursued my creative career because I realized in order to reach my people with a positive message, I would have to become creative. It’s that simple honestly. My message is about self love & mental wellness. As a first generation undergrad student, during hardships I would journal and read to remain present and process life. Read more>>

Bre Nickelle | R&B artist

Having a background that is filled with a strong faith and belief in God, 2 parents that were pastors I had no other choice but to adapt to the environment. which lead me to singing in the choirs to playing the drums. I feel like I did not have to pursue my artistry, I believe it chose me. Read more>>

N X I C O N | Actor, Author, Artist

I chose both an artistic and a creative career because both gave me an avenue to express myself. Counsel myself and basically become therapeutic in dealing with feelings and thoughts that I was having trouble dealing with. They became outlets for my mental, emotional and psychol growth and changes that I was going through. Read more>>

Darius Thomas | Writer/Producer

In all honesty, I began because I knew the gift I had been given was great. The gift wasn’t just artistic, it was spiritual and I knew I had to share those messages. Read more>>

Nicole Williams | Cosmetic Shop Owner

I’ve always been creative. I like making something out of nothing. Tapping into my creativity has always been a therapeutic experience for me. Read more>>

Naomi. | Artist

I decided to pursue an artistic career because I knew deep down that I wouldn’t be happy doing anything else. Music, modeling and acting have been passions of mine for as long as I can remember. Read more>>

Tylar Brumfield | Singer/Songwriter (Ti-Lar Bee)

I pursued an artistic and creative career because it was truly the only way I fit into this world. I love writing music and sharing my songs with others. I am able to share my experiences with others and also give them entry to share theirs with me. Besides my passion for singing and performing it’s honestly one of the best rushes I’ve ever had in my life. Read more>>

Magdalena Alexander | Model, Influencer, Entrepreneur, & Artist

I decided to pursue an artistic or creative career because that is what motivates me every day to get up and keep going. The art i create, whether it be painting, makeup looks, or outfits i have put together, helps me to express myself and spread beauty and positivity. Influencing others to be themselves and to find comfortableness in their own skin is one of my biggest goals! This line of work can be tough, but expressing my creativity is what I love to do! Read more>>