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.

Denzell Johnson | Artist, Producer, Creative

I love it. I remember growing up my earliest dream that I remember was being a musician. As I’ve grown the dream evolved, but I’ve always known it would involve creating. I was that kid in your class that would have earbuds in and be rapping and singing songs until you told me to shut up, and I’d still keep going. Because I knew what my dream was and no one could stop me. Read more>>

Julie Jupiter | Children’s Book Author

I have always felt my best when I am creating. I have taken many turns, loop-arounds, and rabbit trails along my career path, and I have picked up an eclectic array of skills that have now come together to equip me to write the books I am currently creating. I have always wanted to be a writer. The design skills I use to illustrate my books are rooted in my education and work experience in photography. Read more>>

Luis Arturo Tapia | Director, Cinematographer, and Producer

I’ve been drawn to filmmaking as far back as I can remember. My parents used to show us old home movies on our little 8mm projector, and as soon as I could hold I camera I started making my own little films, recruiting my brother or friends to pitch in as actors or crew. The truth of it is, I simply love to tell stories through film, and I love the process of making films. Read more>>

Jeremiah Woodard | Photographer

I’ve always been a creative person growing up. Really, I’ve always had an active imagination. Like when I was younger, I’d be outside playing sticks either roleplaying as the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles or reenacting one of my favorite parts from a video game. Even my dad had a walking stick that I would use sometimes and pretend that I was in the Marines doing drills. Read more>>