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.

NEGIN ASKARI

I didn’t pursue an artistic career to appear unique or different. I chose it because it was the most honest way I knew how to express myself. Read More>>

haana lee

I started DJing and eventually just playing other people’s music wasn’t enough for me; I wanted to be involved and make something of my own! It’s hard to describe my motivation in a deeper sense, I guess I just started to feel this overwhelming urge to start something myself, and the feeling grew to be stronger and even more powerful than the underlying constant fear of failing I had. Read More>>

Junda Wu

Storytelling has always been how I make sense of the world. I began as a musician, creating my own work, and naturally became interested in how sound, visuals, and emotion interact. That curiosity eventually led me to directing, where all those elements could live together. Read More>>

Emily Van Gorder-Pantig

The arts have meant everything from as far back as I can remember. It’s where I’ve felt most unlocked and most authentic to my truest self. I grew up as a performing artist and was heavily involved in musical theatre until my late 20s. When I started dating my husband, he purchased me my first digital camera and encouraged the hobby. Read More>>

Vidur Katyal

I pursued an artistic career because it’s where I feel most alive and understood. Storytelling, comedy, and performance let me turn real emotions and everyday moments into something shared and meaningful. I love the balance of discipline and play, and the connection that happens when an audience truly clicks with a story. I didn’t choose this path because it’s easy. Read More>>

Justone Du Plessis

I really believe in what is meant for you will find you and really the arts did find me. I had no clue what I wanted to do with my life. Read More>>

Rodrigo Buscato

When I was younger, I felt guilty for wanting to pursue art. Back then, I saw it as a selfish endeavor, compared to careers like medicine or teaching, which offered clear societal benefits. Everything changed; however, once I first witnessed art’s potential to significantly impact culture and help shape the world around us. Read More>>