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.

Cristian Gomez | Artist at The LOFT & Photographer at TONIGHTS MUSE

I suppose there was never really a choice, I was in band and orchestra as early as elementary school, and my greatest passion was drawing, I was just good at these things. I won a couple of awards as a youngster from art and it just solidified that idea. That I was an “artist”. When middle school came around I did break away and pursue sports but I then discovered that I was a good singer, I fell in love with guitar hero, put the basketball down and picked up a microphone instead, I started a band that year and from the on, this was my life. I fell in love with writing in high school, picked up a film camera in my early 20’s. These are the things that call for my attention. So like I said, it’s for me. It has always been, It seems there was never a choice, now because art is hard I’ve dedicated just as much time to bartending and serving as to my art cause we need to get by. Read more>>

Tinisha Jones | Multimedia Coordinator & Public Relations Specialist

I pursued a creative career because my passion lies in storytelling, community building, and supporting others, all of which are deeply rooted in my faith in God. I created a thriving online community Facebook group known as “Sisterhood in Christ,” which grew to over 32K women across the world. I also launched an inspirational blog for creatives and entrepreneurs. Now, post-graduation from college, I’m in the process of rebranding to prepare for the launch of my entertainment blog and online media agency, Jones Media & Co. I’ve always been driven by a desire to connect with people and inspire them in ways that reflect my commitment to living out my faith. Read more>>

Daunea | Fashionpreneur & Business Consultant & Wardrobe Stylist/Shopper/Image Consultant & Boutique Owner & Social Media Manager/Content Creator

I’ve always been a full time creative! Born into a musical family I grew up as a performing arts baby my entire life. I am a former ballerina/professional dancer who studied dance & minored in drama & music at Bethune Elementary School, Parkway Middle School, graduated from Dillard High School & professionally danced in courses/dance groups at Florida A&M University. I’ve always been a lover & supporter of the arts & my background afforded me the opportunity to not only perform but also fall in love with costume design, beauty/glam & fashion! After graduating college, becoming a military wife, giving birth to my second beautiful daughter (mother of 2 amazing young women) I decided to relocate to Atlanta for a new start & to pursue my dreams (professionally & personally). Read more>>

Kat M. Garcés | Collage Artist & Graphic Designer

Creativity has been a constant in my life since childhood. I was always writing in diaries, scrapbooking, singing in chorus, dancing, and playing piano. Ironically, I never felt I could fully express myself at home, often being dismissed as “too sensitive.” This experience led me to pursue an art career with a purpose: to inspire others to embrace their vulnerabilities without fear or shame. Read more>>

Yesenia Bello | Singer/Songwriter & Fine Artist

If I’m being honest, I wouldn’t say I grew up in the best conditions, and on top of that I spent most of my high school years in the hospital going through intense treatment after falling ill, which in turn, left me with a lot to heal emotionally and physically . I started off excelling in fine arts while I was in middle/ high school and would lock myself in my room to just create in an attempt to get through difficult times and make something out of the situation I was in. Before I knew it creating music alongside singing/ songwriting and even dancing just naturally became something I couldn’t live without no matter how much I tried to deny it.  Read more>>

Daze | Jack of all Trades

I happen to believe that I was born and destined to be a creative. The ability to express and showcase my skills and talents is something that I am passionate about and extremely grateful for. Read more>>