Deciding to pursue an artistic or creative career path isn’t for the faint of heart.  Challenges will abound, but so many of the artists we speak with couldn’t be happier with their choice.  So, we asked them about how they made the decision in the first place.

Kavitha Jayaraman | Musician, Educator, Philanthropist

My journey into the realm of artistic expression began at a tender age when I commenced training as an Indian classical musician. Raised in an environment deeply rooted in music and academics, with multiple generations of musicians preceding me, I found myself navigating the duality of these influences. Read more>>

Boutros Bounahra | Architect

I was always interested in architecture because I was perplexed at how buildings were constructed. I was also fascinated with technology and the speed at which it changes. I was always eagerly learning about the features of every new piece of tech that I could get my hands on and enjoyed finding workarounds for their limitations. Read more>>

Marithe Leon | Painting-Artist

I chose the art career to covey feelings and communicate, I found in painting the most appropriate way for mu personality, experimenting between techniques, shapes, trend and color, I have managed to find my own style in painting, arriving at a playful and mysterious style. Read more>>

Triny Mancisidor | Graphic Designer and Brand Strategist

I have always had a talent for drawing, reading, and writing since I can remember. However, in my teenage years, my mother urged me to pursue a career in tourism, thinking it would provide ample job opportunities. I followed that path, but as I watched my best friends pursue their passions for cooking, serving, and becoming extraordinary hosts, I realized how much I wanted to feel that way too. I yearned to enter the creative field, specifically in Graphic Design.  Read more>>

Jonathan Kelly | Author, Realtor & Creative Director

Because the arts have the power to heal. I was a little kid when I first made this discovery. Having to deal with trauma so early, forced me into seeking an outlet. Artistic expression just felt so right and this is the legacy I always wanted to leave. I can proudly say I’ve been mentoring youth for over 20 years. Read more>>

Kait Carson | Mystery writer

I’d wanted to write since I was nine and read Little Women. As a child I’d dress in my mother’s wedding gown to emulate Jo March. These early stories were written with a flowing ink pen and decorated with balloon exclamation points. College, family, and day job intervened, but the need to write never waned. Read more>>

Michael Okhaen | Sculptor & Public Artist

Nature has always had a prominent place in my life, and I nurtured a deep appreciation for all living things since my youngest age. I dedicated years to a scientific education, yet I found it challenging to convey my profound passion through traditional academic means. This realization prompted a shift towards my creative inclinations. Read more>>

Jayro Lantigua | Cartoonist & Zine Maker

I still hold a full time proper job at a warehouse while I work on my comics and art. Drawing has always been a deep part of both who I am and what keeps me sane. I grew up reading comics as a kid and was later introduced to Underground & Alternative comix such as the works of Daniel Clowes, Charles Burns, Julie Doucet, Robert Crumb and many others in my early 20s. Read more>>