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.

Asia Currie-Clay | Choreographer, Model, & Designer

As a child I always was inspired by those who were creatives. I believe it can be extremely liberating to consistently express yourself. To be paid and appreciated for your art all in the same moment is a indescribable feeling. Honestly, even just seeing your art on a large platform is breathtaking. The first time I saw myself in a music video, Surf by Yung Xayy, I cried. Often, we are told that following the dream of becoming any type artist won’t provide a satisfying life. Of course we may all experience the “struggling artist” lifestyle. But, I truly believe that consistency in your craft will inevitably result in success. Regardless if I see that success in my lifetime or not, I am proud of the things I have created and how those things have impacted the people around me. If you’re reading this and you have been looking for a sign to start your creative career…. this is it. Read more>>

Scott Arbital | Art Director | Graphic Designer | Storyteller

As a kid, I always had a talent for art but not a strong interest. Everyone encouraged me to be an artist, however, it did not seem appealing to me. One day in my junior year of high school I took a graphic design elective class that changed everything for me. The programs challenged me and making art for marketing purposes excited me. Every week we would have a new project in class and then I would go home and do it again on my own to extend my skills and education. Read more>>

Jamie Moon | Tattoo Artist

The biggest appeal of a career as a tattoo artist is the ability to make a livable career as an artist. The second, is the freedom to look, dress, and speak as I wish while working, without being deemed unprofessional. Tattooing is not an easy career, it requires your full attention that goes far beyond a regular 9 to 5, but is immensely gradifying. Read more>>

Justin, Mike, Aubrey | Sports and Music Podcasters

We chose to pursue the creative career of podcasting, because we all share a passion of discussing sports and music. We figured “why not share our views with the world?” Read more>>

Stacey Whaling | LifeStyle Blogger

I love expressing myself through different artistic formats and a blog is a great way to write about things that matter to you. It gives me a daily or weekly format to write which is something that I really enjoy. I love finding cool products or tips and tricks to share. Read more>>