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.

Victoria Zarate

I was always an artistic kid, but honestly, I was somewhat thrown into it from various angles at different points in my life. I did a couple of beauty pageants, became the first model for JDS Modeling School, and started teaching Latin dancing with my ex partner. What went from hobbies that I did here and there, became much more than I expected. Read More>>

Gio Soto

I pursued a creative career because it was the only path that ever felt true to me. I started with music- teaching myself drums and obsessing over rhythm throughout my early years. By high school, I practically lived in the art room, skipping class just to experiment with new mediums and chase inspiration. Growing up in New York City, I was constantly surrounded by creative energy- from graffiti on the streets to underground shows and galleries. That environment shaped me. Creativity wasn’t just an option- it was expression and identity all in one. Read More>>

Bri McKay

I think I’ve always known what I wanted to do with my life since I was a kid. At that point I just knew I loved to perform in all aspects. I pursue what some would call a pipe dream or childish fantasy because it’s what I love and I do not view it as such. I think it takes a certain sort of bravery to go after one’s dreams. I view my creative career as an extension of my self expression, and self expression in any artistic being (like myself) is a necessity. I have things to say, points to make, and what better way to spend my life than to do what I’m passionate about and that people respond to? Read More>>

Robbie Clark

I’ve always loved live music but never had the drive to learn an instrument. I used to mess around with my mom’s old film camera and eventually got a point-and-shoot for my birthday. When a friend started a local band, I began tagging along, casually taking photos just for fun. I didn’t think much of it—until one night at a bigger show, I saw someone shooting in the photo pit and it just clicked. I realized this was something I could actually pursue on a larger scale. And with the rise of social media, it’s only continued to grow from there. Read More>>