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.

Alyssa Gutknecht | Artist

I have always toyed around in my head with the the idea of wanting to paint- specifically watercolors. I was so afraid to try, that I literally went most of my adult life appreciating art but being too intimidated to take the first step. With no experience or training in art I didn’t know where to begin.
During 2020, when most of the world was shut down, I grabbed watercolor supplies at my local grocery store. I fell in love with the way watercolor moved and changed, always unexpected and unplanned. Four years later, I still love it. It brings me a lot of joy and happiness being able to paint all the ideas that float through my head. Read more>>

Felix Akortse | undergraduate instructor & Grade students

I chose an artistic career because it made me feel free to do anything that I wanted to during my undergraduate years, and now I’m able to share my passion, inspiration, identity, and cultural experience in my art work, and that helps me to navigate through the art world. Read more>>

Derrick Finley | Dancer/Choreographer/Socialite

I basically came out of the womb dancing lol. Since I was a small child I’ve had such a deep passion and appreciation for music and dance. Growing up I would watch music videos from legends like, Britney Spears, Janet Jackson, and Lady Gaga. They would always have the best visuals with insane choreography and the best dancers in the world. Read more>>

Nicole Mckay | Mixed Media Artist

Art is just part of who I am. In school I couldn’t decide what to study. Nothing felt right and it was all so stifling. I am not one that sits still very well. I don’t have formal art training besides a few art classes and a stab at graphic design, but I always knew that I needed to work in the arts, whether I was helping people achieve their art goals or creating my own work. It’s the only thing that didn’t make me feel like I was suffocating. I am truly lucky that I get to do both. I’ve been a mixed media painter for roughly 5 years and it still excites me when I get to spend time in my studio. Read more>>

Glenn Taylor | Artist and Scientist

I’ve always been a maker — whether it is cooking, writing, making games with my kids, or designing software. But I’ve come late to pursuing visual arts in my life, and only in the last few years have I called myself an artist. Just before the pandemic, I started working in a couple different areas, stumbled into them really. I started experimenting, learning, and putting some of my works out into the world. I enjoy making it, the results and the process, and some others seem to enjoy seeing it, which is always nice. It’s helped me get through hard times, and gave me another way to connect with my kids, both of whom have their own art pursuits. Hopefully it’ll be something to keep me occupied when I retire. Read more>>