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.

Keonte’ Chandler-kelley

I pursued an artistic/creative career because I’ve always indulged in creative activities. Being artistic and creative is one of the only things that I genuinely have fun and feel happy doing! I took art classes every school year and have been drawing since fifth grade. So, when I graduated I had the grades and means to pursue a “regular” career, but I knew it wouldn’t satisfy me. So I found careers that would suit me creatively but also made money. Read More>>

Estab. Anthony Ramstetter, Jr

Since I was four years old, I have always wanted to be an English Teacher &/or Art Teacher. I deeply enjoyed reading & writing in my youth, & I had amazing English & Language Arts teachers who believed in me along the way. & while I started as a Business: Economics Major in college at Miami University of Ohio, I realized four semesters into my collegiate career that my calling was different. I switched my major to English: Creative Writing & didn’t skip a beat. Read More>>

Dee’anna Alyse

I chose to pursue a creative career because, nothing else made sense. Growing up in a religious home and being taught that I was an extension of my creator, it only made sense for me to also be a creator. I have always had a desire to create. I love telling stories. I love bringing my imagination to life in various forms of expression. Read More>>