Often we don’t have to reinvent the wheel to learn something new – we can just ask experts in the field who can draw on their experience to enlighten us. Below, we’ve shared insights insiders from various industries have shared with us.

Etty Yaniv | Artist, writer and publisher

Some outsiders to the art world are surprised to learn that many artists are unpaid for much of their art practice. For instance, artists frequently incur the expenses of shipping and installing work, not to mention the full or partial cost of making their artwork.  Read more>>

Hong Qiu | Product Designer

Design is often perceived as primarily visual, but after over five years in the industry, I’ve come to understand that visual appeal is just one facet of design excellence. In my evaluation of design work, I prioritize elements like intent, clarity, and the depth of the thought process behind it.  Read more>>

Emily Imazumi | Koto Player and Instructor

When a koto’s strings need to be changed, it’s not as simple to replace them as it may be for a guitar, for example. Restringing a koto is very physically challenging and requires a significant level of skill. Because of this, there are professionals throughout Japan dedicated to koto stringing – a luxury we just don’t have here in America.  Read more>>

Olivia Dumnicka | Co-founder of Swai

I run a user generated content marketing agency called SWAI. One aspect of the user-generated content (UGC) or micro-influencer industry that outsiders might not be fully aware of is the immense diversity and authenticity it brings to brand promotion and marketing campaigns. Read more>>

Jenny Yu | Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, Licensed Acupuncturist

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a complete medical system that has been used to diagnose, treat, and prevent illnesses for more than 2,000 years. The medicine is focused on treating the root cause of the illness and is based on whole-person health approach. Read more>>

Jon Milk | Producer, DJ

Oh ya. Nobody knows what the **** they are doing. Everyone is trying to figure it out and grow at every level. Perception is not always reality. Read more>>

Cheryl Gross | Artist

How much energy it takes to keep up with everything. Read more>>

Franchell Mack Brown | professional creative/artist

One thing that people outside the art world probably don’t realize is the minute percentage of female artists that are represented in museums. Read more>>