We asked some of the most creative folks we know to open up to us about why they chose a creative career path. Check out their responses below.

Issa Raye | Singer

I’ve always liked music and acting from a young age, and remember being in my hometown in Colombia wanting to come to the US and pursue that dream. I actually studied acting in NY for a few years, but I inclined more towards music. I realized music is more aligned with what I want to do. Read more>>

Empress Eebee | Singer/Songwriter

I pursued singing and songwriting because it’s in my blood. I grew up in a family of singers, musicians, writers, rappers and poets. Growing up, listening to not only them, but different genres of music, such as Rock, Disco, R&B, Alternative and others, allowed me to grow easily into the craft of writing, for myself as well as others. Read more>>

Maureen Roxanny | Freelance Photographer and Educator

I pursued an artistic or creative career because I wanted to maintain my creative spirit alive. In a world where the daily grind of a 9-5 job can be draining, I yearned for a way to express myself and find fulfillment beyond the routine. While financial security is undoubtedly important, I refused to let go of my passion for creativity and self-expression. Read more>>

Alexei Geronimo | dancer/choreographer/director

I decided to pursue a career in dance because of my love for it. I always knew it was possible for me to make a living doing what I love and not choose the conventional career path that my family may originally have thought for me. I’m happy I followed my own path and listen to my instincts. Read more>>

Navneet Kaur | Interior Designer

There were two big things that drew me to interior design. The first was this creative itch I’ve always had. Even as a kid, I was rearranging furniture in my room, doodling floor plans, and obsessed with decorating magazines. I just loved figuring out how to use space and design elements to create a certain feeling or mood. Read more>>

Cathi Rodgers | Music Maven & Budding Photographer

My love of live music ignited my decision to pursue a creative career. And to be perfectly honest, it just kind of evolved. Throughout my time in college, I always listened to live music but pretty much stopped while I raised my two boys. After they flew the nest, I had more time to devote to my love of music. Read more>>

Juliet Hay | Professional ballet dancer & Photographer

The root of my inspiration stems from the concept that a single photo can capture such immense beauty. The complexity and vulnerability of expression through the lens is what sparks my passion for photography. Read more>>

Chris Fields | Artist, Songwriter & Producer

The reason why I’ve pursued an artistic/creative career is because of my love for music. I love the process. I find joy in creating music and drawing inspiration from things around me or things that have occurred in my life. Read more>>

Emily Pellegrino | Calligrapher & Engraving Artist

Since I was a kid I have always wanted to be an artist. My childhood muse were horses. All day long I would draw, paint, color, mold with clay–albeit badly, but enthusiastically create. I always did it for fun and because I loved horses. I never seriously considered the idea of being a professional artist. Read more>>

Alan y Ana Pignone y Trinchet | Baker, Sales Person & Architect

Balancing work and life can be a real challenge, especially with the constant demands of today’s world. We’ve all experienced those unexpected bumps that remind us to step back and find that balance. For us, it’s been about making work-life balance a priority, even if it means shaking up our routines. Read more>>

Raheem Fitzgerald | Artist and Painter.

I think when youre doing certain types of work [ like painting and sculpture] there is only one or two threads seperating work and life it takes a conscious effort to remember you have to give yourself moments outside of that frame of reference. Read more>>

Mondalena Vernet | Founder, Rroshe Interiors

The transition into motherhood has made me reevaluate my perspective on work life balance. Naturally, becoming a mom led me to put some aspects of my business on hold. I.E accepting new clients. I knew I wanted to spend the first year of my daughter’s life with her as much as I could but, at times, I also found myself feeling guilty about putting work on hold. Read more>>