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.

Becca Lanese | Cottage Bakery Owner

I pursued an artistic career through baking because I have always had an extreme passion for art. It was the one hobby I had in which I could fully express myself and completely release my mind from anything occupying it. Read more>>

Makayla Yarman | Hair stylist

I pursued this career because I loved the idea of always getting to be creative and make people feel beautiful inside and out. I love how everyday is different. Read more>>

Sondra Brown | Esthetician, Lash tech, Softball coach

I wanted to be an esthetician because i grew up with acne since i was 10 and was so self conscious about it growing up. i want to help other people feel good in their own skin while educating them about skincare. My other passion is coaching softball and being a pitching instructor. Read more>>

Alex Long | Master of Fine Arts Printmaking Candidate at Ohio University

I believe that much of our day in and day out thinking revolves around a creative mindset. We may not notice but this creative thinking process helps us problem solve as well as bring a different vibrancy to our lives. I grew up surrounded by studio artists and although I tried to avoid the artistic career path for a period of time I am incredibly inspired by the passionate and community centered environment found in many creative careers. Read more>>

Aaron Homerski | Fiber and Multimedia Artist

I pursued an artistic career because I want to do work that makes me happy and is fulfilling to my soul. And in the process I get to help others express themselves through clothing and fashion. Read more>>

Zen Sonora | Model

Modeling has given me a chance to express myself Mentally, Physically and Spiritually. I can always be myself along with any other persona I want to take on that day whether it’s a fashion show, photoshoot, or model call. Modeling has boosted my creativity level up a ton just from styling myself to directing how I want the photoshoot to go. Read more>>

Kay Thomas | Artist, Tattoo Apprentice, & Case Manager

I started drawing from the time I could hold a pencil. In fact, the first time someone ever asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I told them that I wanted to be an artist. Growing up near Youngstown, Ohio, I spent most of my time drawing alone in my bedroom. Some of the first real subject matter I drew was what I saw on television and in video games: Read more>>