Deciding to pursue an artistic or creative career path isn’t for the faint of heart. Challenges will abound, but so many of the artists we speak with couldn’t be happier with their choice. So, we asked them about how they made the decision in the first place.

Jacob Darner | AKA DARN GOOD ART – Photographer / Artist

Ive always been sort of outside of the box, and a creative thinker – once high school came along and the future started getting closer, being an artist was really the only thing that made sense to me. The classes I took in high school opened my eyes, and following that to Northern Michigan University’s school of art and design opened doors to a world i never could have imagined. The faculty, teachers, and peers ive had over the years have all pushed me to be my best and continue to develop my artistic practice. Being an artist has really taught me alot – about myself and about life and the world around me. Its opened my eyes to the beauty in the everyday and the ordinary, and pushed me out of my box to make connections within my community and beyond. Read more>>

Emily Grocki | Illustrator (grockiillustration)

I’m an illustrator because I have so much creativity to share with the world, my dream has always been to make a living from something in the creative field. Since I was young I’ve always expressed that I won’t allow myself to accept the typical boring office job, it’s not what I’m meant for.
More importantly, I pursued art for myself, It brings me so much joy. It’s so satisfying to have a creative idea and bring it to life knowing that I’ve just made something that could’ve never existed without the creativity and stylization I bring to my work. Read more>>

Aries Skye | Author and Entrepreneur

I pursued my artistic career because I wanted to pen the beauty in Black romance, which is my signature phrase. Writing stories that explore and celebrate love and relationships through the Black experience is a passion. As the world opens up to more of our stories, I hope to expose more readers in the mainstream audience so they can appreciate (and swoon) over them, just as we do. Read more>>

ABI | Singer/Songwriter & Music Teacher

For me, music isn’t just a way of life. It’s more of a need, really: A need to create, a need to express myself, a need to be heard. I don’t think I would survive in this world without it. I feel I was always meant to find my way in it, anyone who says they never saw my life going down this path was absolutely fooling themselves. I’ve been playing piano since I was 4, and I’ve been singing for even longer! All I’ve ever wanted to do is sing, and play, and sing and play some more. I feel incredibly lucky to be able to share my love and passion for music, from the stage to my classroom. Nothing I’ve done so far in my life has been more rewarding or fulfilling. Read more>>

LB199X | Artist & Songwriter

I always know I was different! The way I approach anything in life was all I needed to know about myself for me to understand that. I always did what I thought was right and fair and I always stood on what I believed in. I’ve worked jobs as well to further my point that a I just don’t fit in this type of career. I’ve always had drive and ambition so working was the east part but keeping my attention on something I never had a passion for was the hard part. So I knew that I had to count on mind and myself and the resources around me to make this happen with my art. Learning through trail and error that I had to learn the steps for me to become successful in this field of art so my drive fueled me all these years ! And through it all highs and lows I’m greatful for all that I’ve been through. Read more>>

Taylor Walker | Content Creator, Photographer, Videographer

Navigating the a career based in creativity has always felt like a natural expedition for me. From choosing mediums to work with my hands or visual stories through the lens of a camera, the allure of articulating emotions and narratives in tangible forms has been one of my favorite ways to express not only myself but those who choose to work with me. Being a mother to Athena, and sharing journey with my partner, Dan, have only deepened the well of experiences to draw from. Each day presents a new scene, a fresh palette of emotions, and an evolving storyline. It’s a beautiful process that grows and changes with me. Read more>>

Nathan Walton | Entertainment Artist – Music Producer – Singer – Instrumentalists – Guitar Instructor

This career came to me. I was an avid fan of music as a child and just enjoyed listening to music. I started to sing in the middle school choir and really enjoyed it. I started a band in High School and as they say, the rest was history. after my audition with American Idol and the success that came with it, I made the decision to become a full-time musician and started my own small business. Read more>>

Cora Smith Waite | Tilemaker

When I was in high school I could not imagine choosing something to go to school for and be happy doing for the rest of my life. I discovered my love for film photography in high school and thought this could be that thing! I always loved creating anything with my hands, learning a new process. Photography was amazing because I could capture any image and then take it home and watch it recreate in the developing process. It was not the instant gratification from digital photography, you had to patiently wait to see that image again and hope that you captured it the way you remembered. I was enthralled to say the least; I must have been because I do not have any patience. Read more>>

Sam Smutz | Couples and Wedding Photographer

Choosing a form of art as a career was never my plan. After I graduated highschool I traveled for a short time and worked a part time job when I was home. Photography has been a hobby and something I’ve enjoyed doing for almost as long as I can remember. My interest in photos and cameras is what prompted me to learn more and eventually start a business, but my love for people and getting to not only create with them but save their memories for them is what has made me continue to pursue photography as a career. There is nothing quite like the art of noticing. Read more>>

Leray Posey | Freelance Photography

Art has been an integral part of my life, as it has been for many people. However, as an artist, I often face the question of what to do with my art when it comes to building a career. I have been asked, “Who needs to hire that?” This question is funny because art surrounds us in our everyday lives, from the paintings in waiting rooms to the home-style trends we follow. Even the way a skillet is made to cook our morning eggs is the result of the work of designers, left-brainers, and artists. It is interesting that people do not consider the number we type on our calculators or the bed we sleep on a form of art. But, everything around us is the product of artistic commercialism. Read more>>

Jalen Melville | Musician & Artist

Because for my own safety. I started doing this music stuff as a way to cope with alot things I had going on at home and so it was kinda my escape. It helped me change my outlook on life and so I was like yeah let me do this. I do computer programming to cause I am aware that this shit is risky, but its still worth it. I love making music, its a core part of me. Read more>>

DeAndre Jacob | Chef & Rap Artist

Some things you may not be able to express in words.making music and being a chef is a different way for me to express myself. Read more>>

Courtney Crider | Graphic Designer & Illustrator

I believe that each person has a unique view of the world and that sharing it with others can change lives and touch hearts. My illustration style is mine and a part of who I am. I want others to see my artwork and be filled with joy. For graphic design, I enjoy putting myself in the shoes of other people to create designs that connect to them on an individual level. Ultimately I want to create some sort of emotion in people – whether it be peace, joy, empathy, understanding, or more. Using my creative talent to impact others is a big motivation for choosing a creative career path. Read more>>

Michele Olson | Author, speaker, artist, and voicepro

Like most people, I had a career that fell into the “normal” column- a marketing and advertising writer. As a writer and media personality, I was able to enjoy creativity but always through the “filter” of someone else’s vision. My second act has allowed me to have my own publishing company (LakeGirlPublishing.com) and pursue writing novels set on Mackinac Island on my own terms. I still do freelance corporate writing and voicework for a variety of projects, but I do it on my schedule now, and I love that! I’ve also had more leeway in pursuing artistic endeavors and making my art available on places like etsy. Read more>>

Rachel Martindale | Owner of Q Bakehouse & Market

I quit a career in corporate engineering because I found that I was much more passionate about pursuing creative endeavors. I’m much more of a creative person and I experience the most joy in this type of work. Read more>>

Escada “DARKLORD” Gordon | Designer & cartoonist

My goal was always to find or create a platform for my creative experience and life experience to coexist in. And what I ended up finding out was I am a very proficient cartoonist, comedy writer, and designer. Growing up in detroit was very interesting Especially being the creative and person that I am. Being a black nerd has always let me down a path of Redefining peoples perspectives n alternative minds some say imma genius I’d say im just doing my job. Read more>>

J.Street | Artist / Producer

I am a believer that we all have a purpose in life. Everybody. Rather it be to have kids and raise a family in a more traditional way or to be a fireman or policeman. All of those things have a VERY important purpose in our world and without them the world wouldn’t be the same. This is why I chose to be a musician. I have a belief that my work is needed in this world the same way you would need a fireman or policeman. I have a message to deliver to the world with my words. I love creating music and I could not see myself doing anything else. Read more>>

Emily Garcia | Ceramicist & Graphic Design

When people discover I’m a ceramicist, they’re often curious about my creations. I describe them as “quirky cat-themed pieces.” At first, I questioned if I should be crafting more “serious” work. I would ask myself, “did I really get an art degree to make THIS? Should I be making something with more meaning or purpose?” However, as I displayed my pieces at art shows and markets, I paid attention to the way that people interacted with my art. They would run up to my artwork and exclaim over a piece, or pick something up and clutch it to their chest in joy. It’s the same way that I feel about the pieces that I love: the little fox hanging in my hallway, the cat figurine on my kitchen windowsill, or the mug that makes me smile every morning. Read more>>

Jessie Keaton | Artist, Hand Letterer & Hand Painter

Originally my small business was just a hobby. It was something I did on the side as a way to decompress after a long day at my 8-5. Eventually, friends and family picked up on it and I started creating custom orders. A few years later I started doing in-person shows and markets and I have been able to connect with people from all over. It’s very much still something I do as a way to decompress after a long day at my 8-5, but I also get so much joy from being a part of people’s special moments and memories. Whether it’s a nursery sign, a wedding sign, or really anything you could imagine, I’m just really grateful that people choose me to be a part of their special moments, day to day home decor, and more! Read more>>

Claire Sinelli | Photographer & content creator

I’m a person who wouldn’t be happy in life without a creative job. I know even in a more mundane job I always end up finding and choosing to prioritize any tasks I can be imaginative with. Read more>>

Kimberly Lavon | MA, CD, CEO of Mint Maven

Pursuing creative as a career was less of a choice and more of a calling. It’s a language that’s always come naturally to me. Even when I didn’t want it to! Making money in this field is difficult as you most likely already know. So for that reason I tried almost everything to replace it. I worked jobs like: park ranger, boat rental operator, optometrist, personal trainer, fashion retailer, grocer and more. Nothing stuck. Creativity always called me back. It’s always been a part of my life. Read more>>

Stephanie Onwenu | Visual Artist + Landscape Designer + Educator

“Art has been fluid throughout my life. As a youth I was into everything arts related from painting, drawing, sculpting, sketching, dancing, sewing, creating African head gele designs (hit me up, lol), custom hand-made pins that I made and sold in high school, the list goes on.” I identify as a multifaceted person who practices different forms of creativity that interest me. The idea of Ijeomalandartscapes LLC came as I was thinking about ways to bring the natural beauty of nature and the environment indoors using a creative artistic form. Leaning on my background in landscape architecture and environmental design stretched the creative and strategic possibilities of a better way to mimic and conceptualize the landscape environment through art. Read more>>

Hannah Korte | Photographer

Any “regular” job I ever worked never felt right to me. Even before I actually entered the work force the typical 9-5 never appealed to me or felt like something I wanted to do. Once I was old enough to realize that I could pursue something creative and actually make money doing it, all bets were off. I only worked jobs that weren’t creative to help me along the way to a full-time creative career. Read more>>

Shawn Rochelle | Branding Photographer and Podcaster

I pursued a creative career because it represents everything I am. I honestly feel like it chose me! Being a photographer was always my thing, so it was only right to make it a career! Plus, God so eloquently crafted me to be a creative, why not share my gifts with the world. I see the world through a photographer’s lens and I wouldn’t trade that for anything in the world because I find beauty in everything and some of the most beautiful things seem to just find me! Read more>>

Alfield Reeves | Freelance Editorial & Portrait Photographer

I pursued my creative career because I didn’t really want to be at the day job I was at. I was a tutor coordinator and loved the kids I was working with but didn’t want to be there anymore. So I took the leap of faith and quit my job and have been a full-time photographer since. Read more>>

Alyxandria Schroeder | Morning Ritual Coffee Bar, Owner

It’s funny because I never considered myself to be a creative person (I actually read books on how to become more creative because I was always frustrated I felt those things couldn’t come naturally to me). I still don’t know if a lot of people would look at my career as being artistic or creative, but my whole perspective has flipped. Now that I’m in it I realize I couldn’t do a career where I didn’t have the creative freedom to be as wild and crazy as I want with how I formulate drinks, create merch or decorate the space. I love watching movies and listening to music and being able to be inspired to create fun drinks based off of it. It makes my entire day when I hand someone their order and see their eyes light up. Read more>>

Anthony Roth | Videographer/Photographer

The idea for my business began when I enrolled in college to study music business. However, after just one semester, I realized it wasn’t the right fit for me, and I found myself without a clear direction. I discovered that I had a passion for creativity, using my creative skills to inspire and engage people. I also had a love for capturing videos and photos and enjoyed the challenge of editing them into unique creations. So, I started to plan my business strategy and define my target audience. Eventually, I decided to specialize in product photography and videography. Over time, I expanded my services to include senior portraits, boudoir photography, podcast production, and recently, wedding photography and videography. Read more>>

Sonny Shaw | Photographer

I’ve always been interested in the arts. When I was a kid I wanted to be a singer or a ballet dancer, as I got older it shifted to painting, drawing, and when I discovered photography that’s when I found my favorite medium. Read more>>

Eros lee Spacealien | Drag entertainment and designer

As someone who has always been apart of the arts there has never been a time in my life where I could picture myself in any other career besides something in the arts , hence something that combines my passion for fashion and creating outfits and accessories, styling wigs , performing creating performances that entertain and entrance those who watch , it’s what I live for Read more>>

Mike Fate | MMTY Music Artist & Wizard

Honestly, I pursue music because my soul feels like it’s what I’m here for and I wouldn’t be happy without it. I think everyone should follow their dreams and I can be an example that anyone can do whatever they believe in. Read more>>

Jen McPherson | Owner/Proprietor

I have always been a creative person. Growing up I was involved in theater and dance and I have always loved to write. When I left my teaching job, I knew I wanted to be my own boss and create something of my own. It was important to me to use my love of the arts and small business to create a space for makers that allowed them to showcase their creative talents as well. Read more>>

Jayla Smalls | Music Artist

I pursued a creative career because art is all I know. Whether it’s visual or performing arts related, the way I am able to express myself through colors, sounds, and emotion is the highlight of my passion. To be a creative takes a lot of courage, vulnerability, and transparency. It what makes me feel like the purpose of humanity is. To express ourselves through the delights of sound and looks, and that’s why I’ve been a performing artist for the past few years. Read more>>

Jacob Kablak | 3D Artist

I chose to pursue an artistic career because it has always been something I’ve been very passionate about; I love the gift of being able to create and being able to share that with others. However, for the longest time, I thought having an artistic career would be an unrealistic goal. You always hear the term “the struggling artist,” which was enough to scare me into wanting to try a bunch of other careers because at the end of the day, you must be able to provide for your family. It wasn’t until I realized how art is present in virtually every aspect of our commercial world that I came to the conclusion that an artistic/creative career was not only feasible but totally necessary—everything from the designs on cereal boxes to billboards and signs. Read more>>

Elliot Wills-Begley | Leatherworker, English Teacher, Windsurfer, and Musician

I was lucky to be born into an incredibly creative family. My father is an architect, and my mother is a designer and painter. Both of my brothers pursued careers in the arts. Initially, I took a different path, becoming an English teacher in Ann Arbor Public Schools. While I still love working with children, I knew that I also needed to work with my hands. I wanted to create things, design products, and set up a workshop of my own. I had experience in woodworking, but since so many of my friends are woodworkers, I felt the need to do something different, to find a craft that was unique to me, and represented my tastes, styles, and ambitions. Read more>>

CienTell | Music Artist

I chose to pursue a creative career because I love to create! Music has always been a passion of mine ever since I was 8 years old. I grew up watching Michael Jackson, James Brown, Aaliyah, Destiny’s Child and I thought to myself, “I can do that too!” At the age of 18, I decided to pursue a dance career and I had he pleasure of working with Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston as dancer and actress. I worked with so many artists that I decided to pursue a signing career myself and it was the best decision I ever made! Read more>>

Jaclyn Croel | Hair Stylist and future Pole Instructor

I’ve always been one with a wild imagination and a curious heart; that really doesn’t offer space for a “normal 9 to 5” career. To be frank, I despise that schedule. My brain works best when growing within something that allows me not only my creative freedom but also challenging education and lessons both professionally and personally. As a hair stylist, there’s always a new trend, always a new process, always multiple ways to get to the final goal. I’m not only working with color theory, but also geometry, chemistry, therapy, mine and my clients’ vulnerability, all while exploring the worlds of marketing, advertising, social media, entrepreneurship, and continued education. Having a creative career allows me the space, time, freedom, and exploration that both my brain and soul crave. Read more>>