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.

Mianna Zentmeyer | Professional Photographer

As far fetched as it may seem, I actually used to be a race car driver. I was on the professional training route, training in an INDYCAR about to make my debut in IndyLights. I, unfortunately, got diagnosed with some serious health conditions thats took me out of the sport, however I am super grateful for everything I learned during my time in the sport because it’s what brought me to photography. Read more>>

Shanteé Mims | Cofounder of Smims Mixology

When I’m faced with a challenge I check the level of my glass to begin with. From there I allow creativity to guide me as an instinctive tool. The creative path also gives me the ability to make new opportunities wile having fun. When I started bartending I realized very early that I didn’t care for working in restaurants and hotels. Read more>>

Kenzie Johnson | Aspiring Actress, Singer, and Performer

I started dancing when I was 2 years old at a local studio as a way to put my extra energy towards something more useful than bouncing off the walls at home. At least that’s what my mom says. Read more>>

Sierra (Miksi) Sanchez | Makeup artist/ YouTuber/ Jeweler/ Barista/ Content Creator

To really explain discuss why I chose to pursue an artistic career I have to begin with where my inspiration came from. I grew up as a child of the internet, the internet was a place for me to escape and dive into the life’s of my favorite creators. Read more>>

Joei Redd | Photographer & Music Artist

I pursued this career because it came so natural to me. Read more>>

Claudia Parada | Musician, composer and counselor.

I pursued an artistic career because it is something that I am very passionate about. I enjoy writing music, playing and creating melodies that can reach people. I am a person who feels a lot what happens around me, but sometimes I have a hard time expressing everything I feel in words, so music is a great way to channel my emotions. Read more>>

Slab Jonez | Musical Artist & Audio engineer

Well for me being artistic is something I have a passion for. I believe creating something from scratch is truly authentic. Pursing a career strictly for something I’m passionate for is refreshingly original, and honestly I just feel like I can be myself. Someone who’s totally at peace when it comes to being an Artist. Read more>>

Pat “P3” Pree | Master Photographer & Creative Director

Back in 2019 I was working a dead end job for a lighting company and miserable. I was expecting my first child and really didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life. I knew I wanted to give my daughter the world but to do that I needed more money. Then the pandemic hit and like everyone else everyday life came to a screeching halt. Read more>>