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.

Daria Valiguras | Professional fashion photographer and retoucher

Since I was young, art and creativity have always had a special place in my heart. I loved finding unique ways to express myself creatively. As a child, I explored various forms of art, attending drawing school, dancing classes, and starting my music education at the age of eight. But it was photography that truly captured my soul. I could spend hours immersed in family photos, and whenever I got hold of our humble Kodak camera, I would eagerly snap pictures of everything around me. Read more>>

Shakti Theater | Indie Spiritual Music Group

Miami-based indie spiritual group Shakti Theater was discovered in 2022 by Vishnu Ramankutty and Julie King. They both were trained in classical music from an early age, later developing their unique passion for spirituality. Julie King is described as the voice of the generation. She is an internationally acclaimed performer, multi-award-winning singer-songwriter, recording artist, conscious breathwork master teacher, sound healer, and author. Read more>>

Tamas Laczko | Motorcycle builder

I always liked creativity, felt it even was a kid. Liked spending time with my father in he’s garage. Always wanted to learn new things, and when moved to America, always tried to follow my dreams, all ideas in my head, and put my knowledge and effort in all those I built, Trying to show my creativity through those I built, and what will build in the future. Read more>>

Carole Kunstadt | Visual Artist

I have always been interested in art. My parents encouraged the artistic talents of both myself and my sister.. We were never idle. We were always drawing, painting and making things—embroidering, sewing, and later macramé. Art was central to what we did.. I have always been greatly satisfied making/creating something from nothing. During high school, Saturdays were spent in classes at the Mass College of Art and the Boston Museum School, where I had placed in junior and senior award programs. I was the first in my family to attend a B.F.A. program, studying at the Hartford Art School in Hartford, CT. Read more>>

Nick Vargas | Photographer and IT professional

I pursued an artistic and creative career because it allows me to express my unique perspective and connect with others on a deeper level. From a young age, I found joy and fulfillment in artistic endeavors, and only as a young adult did I realize that creativity was an integral part of who I am. It gives me the freedom to explore my imagination, experiment with different mediums, and constantly challenge myself. I have struggled to be creative in different forms such as writing or drawing, but photography allows me to tell my unique human story. Read more>>

Trinidad Troncoso | Actress and Content Creator

I always wanted to do art. Could be dancing, singing or acting. It’s been always on my soul, it’s what I’m most passionated about. I love using my body to create new things, being able to express myself throw it. I ended up studying theatre because I felt it can involve the three arts that I love in just one. It’s what makes me feel safe and at the same time challenge me everyday. Read more>>