We asked some of the city’s leading artists and creatives to tell us about how they decided to pursue an artistic or creative career. We’ve shared some highlights below.

Tricia Mladineo | Makeup artist and Hair design artist

I decided to pursue an artistic career because ever since I was a child, I had a passion for art. From getting serious with my coloring books, performing in tap dance and ballet, going to art museum field trips, I knew an artistic career was my calling. In grade school I would help my friends curl their hair for their beauty pageants as the curling iron flowed naturally in my hand. Read more>>

Ray Floyd | DJ / Music Producer

I felt as if my soul was pushing me to jump in to this Music world, I always pictured myself on stage as a DJ in front of thousands of people playing the hottest dance records, but it never occurred to me how those records became records, little did I know DJ’s DO have an artistic/creative touch, in music production. Read more>>

Cortney McClure | Interior Designer

Design is more than aesthetics, to me. It’s a service, and my goal and desire is to serve others. I found so much joy in crafting a well-loved home for my own family, that is became a clear vocation. While a corporate background is not the traditional prerequisite for a design career, I’ve continually drawn from my experience in those positions. Read more>>

Jeanne Akita | Fiber artist

I had my creative side calling strongly since my early childhood. I was constantly drawing and painting in school, and later been creating art project for my friends and family. It was no brainer what way to go after my 15 years long first career in finance. Art and creativity always had a special place in my heart. Read more>>