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.

Austin Courtney | Content Creator

I think that nowadays people do not prioritize the importance of having meaning within their lives & career. Yes money is great, and it is a good indicator of success in the traditional sense. However, there is an intangible that money cannot buy, which is fulfillment. Being fulfilled and feeling like you are making an impression on people is a wonderful feeling. Read more>>

Karin Dax | Interior Designer

For me, a creative outlet is essential for me — to have that partnered with my career makes what I do both challenging and fulfilling. I love the creative aspect of interior design more than any other part of the work. To take a blank space and figure out the best way to fill it for each client, whether it’s a home, office, lobby, or restaurant, is like putting together a puzzle, and the materials, finishes, and furniture are the finishing touches that make everything come together. Read more>>

GREGOIRE DEVIN | Artist

I have always been a creative person from a very young age with a lot of imagination. I’ve always dreamed of doing great things without really knowing which direction to take. I started working for different companies but I needed more to express myself. I quickly wanted to create my own activity to be able to create projects, meet people and discover the world. Read more>> 

Sophia Savoie-Lanouette-Loy | Esthetician

I got into skincare because I loved the idea of empowering people to feel like the best versions of themselves. I help people get ready for weddings, babies, new careers, first dates, and sometimes even move through loss. People not only trust me with their skincare but they began to trust me with some of the deepest parts of their being. To be able to provide a space like this in the community I love so much, means the absolute world to me. Read more>>

Carlos Apitz | Graphic Artist and Designer

From a very young age I felt the need to create through drawing and painting, I discovered from a young age that art is a form of expression and also a business. After finishing high school in Venezuela, my native country, the decision to become an artist and graphic designer was a logical decision for me. Read more>>

Cat Powell-Hoffmann | Writer and Fine Artist

That’s actually an interesting question. It’s not really a decision, it’s more of a habit, or maybe a need. My mother used to say, “You’ve been drawing ever since you could hold a pencil.” I never stopped. I drew on the walls, the family dog’s forehead, my bedroom furniture, even my kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Ruscoe’s shiny new desk. Read more>>

natalie rivas | Singer, Songwriter, Producer, Indie Label

I pursued an artistic/creative career because I truly enjoy the process of creating but I also believe it is my calling. When my listeners reach out to me and tell me how much my music inspires them or helps them get through difficult times it truly pushes me to keep going. My songs are all based on my experiences through relationships and friendships so it’s almost like I’m creating soundtracks to my life. It has been one of the most spiritual journeys for me. Read more>>

Arielle Assouline-Lichten | Artist & Furniture Designer

As long as I can remember, I have been someone who creates. I would sit for hours in my room making projects, turning ideas into new realities. I was captivated by the process of cutting, rearranging, and configuring elements. As I was forming my career, I gravitated towards the design arts as a way to earn a living by creating. Read more>>