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.

Janessa Sanderson | Owner & Lead Photographer

I was so fortunate to be raised by two loving and incredibly artistic parents. There was never a shortage of creativity in our house, from watercolor painting to creating stained glass windows. My parents worked in a variety of mediums throughout my life but photography ironically was not one of them! Read more>>

Amanda Gonzalez | Quinceañera Photographer

My name is Amanda Gonzalez and I am the founder of Angels In Lace. I am a Quinceanera connoisseur. I pursued a creative career. For me, art has always been an emotional outlet – a way to express feelings when words failed me. Read more>>

Milena Mikić | Creative Branding & Product Designer

I grew up in Serbia, and unconventionally in many ways. One is that I spent most of my early, formative years being raised by my father and grandfather at home, while my mom was working to provide for us. Read more>>

Jesus Marin | Art Educator/ Sculptor,Painter

My artistic instinct born at an early age as my first mural was a drawing of Fred Flintstone face in crayon on my living room wall. I has pursued my artistic aspirations with the biggest support of my mom that saw her little 5-year-old drawing on the wall like an expert and allowed me free style in my bedroom. Read more>>