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.

The Official Idol | Icon

I pursued an creative career because I firmly believe that art comes in many different forms and allows for the freedom of expression and exploration. Through art, I can tap into the depths of my imagination and bring forth ideas and emotions that may be difficult to convey through other means. It offers me a platform to communicate, provoke thought, and engage with others on a profound level. By embracing my creative career, I celebrate the diversity of artistic mediums and styles. I understand that creativity knows no boundaries and can manifest itself in countless ways, whether it be through painting, sculpture, music, dance, literature, or any other form of artistic expression. Read more>>

Jacob Rivera-Sanchez | Theatre Artist & Marketing Manager/Graphic Designer

The sense of artistry that I’ve been instilled with has always felt very God-given; a true blessing. I latched onto that at an early age and just did my best to strengthen and develop those creative skills throughout my schooling. It wasn’t until I was transitioning into high school that I really had the opportunity to focus on it. Later I realized I could pursue it at the collegiate level, then make a career out of it. I have always been very passionate about performing arts and the entertainment industry, so to have that realization was very impactful. Culturally, that kind of career was not something that was encouraged growing up, but it wasn’t necessarily discouraged either. Read more>>

Darius Aldridge | Tumbling instructor & professional dancer/actor

I pursue the artistic and creative career cause I been a creative person growing up. My mind be running full idea and new stuff to just random make. Whether it singing,dancing,acting etc; I’ve always a creative way to show case who I am and what I represent. Read more>>

Jana Talke | writer & art influencer

I always loved languages and going to museums and wanted study literature to and art history. And I did just that. Was it a little naive and idealistic? Totally. But it did work out in the end, I do what I love, even though it is not as rewarding as it would be in other fields, but I’m not a quitter. Read more>>

Elle Cole | President & Creative Director

I pursued a career in high-end luxury interior design because of my passion for creating graceful and unique living spaces. Artistry and creativity have always been a fundamental part of my identity, and I wanted to channel that energy into a profession that allows me to transform ordinary spaces into extraordinary works of art. Luxury interior design provides a canvas for me to express my artistic vision and push the boundaries of what’s possible in terms of aesthetics and functionality. It allows me to blend my love for art, architecture, and craftsmanship to curate spaces that not only reflect the individuality of my clients but also offer a heightened sense of comfort and sophistication. Read more>>

Zeke Forever | Artist, Producer & Graphic Designer

Honestly, I had no other choice. Music was always my remedy for any situation in which I found myself. I think music is the way I properly express myself. Read more>>

Kevin Ridiq” Kaburu | The Kenyan Dancehall Guru”

Im Kenyan Born, Dallas based now for 2years and I chose to pursue a Musical career because Music, for me, is not just a passion but a fundamental part of who I am. From the time I Heard music, I discovered it’s a unique and powerful way to communicate and connect with any one in different parts of the world. There’s also a certain magic in the process of music creating to something from nothing, and that magic has been a constant source of inspiration for me. One pivotal moment in my journey was when I saw performances on Tv by Jamaican artists such as Sizzla, Anthony B, Capleton, Bob Marley and many more. It made me realize the transformative potential of how music can evoke emotions, tell stories, and provoke thought in ways that nothing else alone often cannot. Read more>>

Davayun Chase | Actor

I started getting into acting back in mid 2018 doing some background (extra) work for local films to get a feel of how it is to be on camera and just overall being on set of a media production after watching so many movies from action, drama etc.. and how fun it looks to be apart of a film. I started taking acting more seriously in early 2019, taking acting classes at Stage west and Fort Worth Actor’s studio both located in Fort Worth, TX. They both taught me a variety of techniques starting with the foundation of acting leading up to doing mini showcases showing of my growth as an actor. I was blessed enough to get as much training to put me in the position of being on screen with dialogue in the beginning of 2020 landing lead and supporting roles in over 10 films and i have been working consistently since then. Read more>>