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.

Jay | Photographer

Well, I’ve always had a thing for imagery since I was a kid, I’ve always been fascinated by cameras and pictures and I feel like nobody creates an image like me when it comes to colors and shadows, so naturally I had to pursue my dream to show the world what I see when I envision a scene. Read more>>

Rayne Lawrence | Cosmetologist

I grew up a very artistic child I come from a long line of musicians and music has always been my first passion. Started learning piano at 10, guitar at 12, and I’ve been singing my whole life. Growing into my teen years I was always into that edgier look, I would bleach, cut, and color my hair myself as an artistic expression of who I was. Later down the line I realized that was something I loved to do, help others express themselves through their appearance. I started cosmetology school at the age of 17, graduated at 18 and in these very few years have made a great clientele for myself and opened up a small business I call Wicked Pixie Salon. I wanted to help others gain their own artistic freedom and feel comfortable in their skin as who they are. I specialize in the edgier side of cuts, and men’s fades. I also work at a small business salon called Super Styles in Lakeworth Texas with a wonderful bunch of stylists who specialize in everything from color, fades, and texturized cuts. Read more>>

Zaira Espana | Florist & entrepreneur & mom

I had always been drawn towards the idea of being able to create something since a early age. I would DIY anything that I could and add my own touch to it but still I felt I wasn’t being creative enough or creating what I should be and never knew why. Once I started making floral arrangements I understood why that was. Making floral arrangements allowed me to fulfill that creativity I had desired. I get to have my own imagination and vision and bring it to life! It is truly a passion I never knew I had. Read more>>

Kanasia Riley | Comedian & Owner of Roxie Jay Skin & Hair Care

I think it was more of me actually utilizing my artistic and creative side. I have always had an interest in business and the art of it. After receiving my degree in business I grew bored with the administrative part and yearned for so much more. Every idea came so naturally and rapidly, I knew it was what I was born to do. Read more>>