Every once in a while we have the good fortune of working on a project that we feel truly matters, a project that we’ll still be thinking about years from now. Maybe even something we can imagine telling our grandkids about – surely you’ve had moments like that where something you did in your professional life really mattered?
Ava Lake
Releasing my first track in over two years has been an internal battle of artistic perfection. I went to college downtown Chicago and while getting a degree in Marketing. I wrote, performed, and built a fan base playing bars and small nightclubs. At the tail end of my time in Chicago I was exposed to the underground house music scene and the art of a DJ set. I moved out to LA in 2021 and started trying to play any venue I could. After a year in LA I found the underground “afters” scene in LA and was hooked. Going to see DJ sets at random warehouses in DTLA, Space Yacht Tuesdays at Sound Nightclub, and Clinic Wednesdays at Station 1640 were my new classes in the self conducted Ava University of Dance Music Culture. My sound started to change and I wanted to make tech house hits that would flow in the rising stars Dom Dolla, and John Summit’s sets. Read more>>
Soulfiya
I recently dropped a new EP called “Faawaad” from Americano Label. It is a fusion of Drum & Bass, Dancehall, and various other styles of Caribbean music. The work features top-tier production from Grammy-nominated El Dusty, as well as co-producer Dred Nugent. It’s a four-track EP filled with energy, rhythm, and genre-blending creativity. Opening the EP is the title track, “Faawaad”, a hype drum and bass style riddim with a classic East coast feel. Created by producers El Dusty and Dred Nugent, this track sets the tone with rapid-fire positivity and an infectious mantra of a chorus. I was blessed to feature the smooth Neo-soul vocals of my longtime bredrin and coconspirator, Kroywen on this track and I really feel he killed it. His style is a perfect compliment to my own and im happy to finally get him on a El Dusty produced banger. Together, we deliver an uplifting and exciting anthem that captures the essence of modern Caribbean/American style. The second track, “BossFiya”, dives deep into the UK digital sound, with a thunderous riddim that features one of Guyana’s favorite artists, Gucci Boss—a soca/dancehall powerhouse hailing from New York by way of Berbice, Guyana. Next, “21 Gun Salute” is a tribute track, where I pay homage to my favorite foundation dancehall artists and the influences that helped shape my sound. El Dusty puts a fresh spin on Jackie Mittoo’s classic “Drum Song” riddim, giving the track a nostalgic 90’s dancehall/dembow flavor. Finally, closing out the EP is “1, 2, 3!”, another collaboration between me and Gucci Boss. This soca-meets-dancehall banger combines Indo-Caribbean drums & heavy club bass with elements of chutney and cumbia to create a real outstanding fun fusion track. I PROMISE you aint heard a tune like this one! To complement the release, we put out a music video shot in Corpus Christi’s North Padre Island. Its not hard to see we had a blast shooting it, BigUp Germany’s Reggaeville.com for hosting the video! Check the vibes on Youtube Read more>>
Tomeka M. Winborne
“As a filmmaker, my focus has always been on creating work that brings awareness to social issues and marginalized communities. My latest short film, Wise Love, tells the story of a mother who becomes the caregiver for her 19-year-old son recently diagnosed with schizophrenia. In a desperate attempt to save him from himself, she faces a decision that could change their lives forever. This film is a deep dive into the emotional and mental toll of caregiving, particularly in the context of mental health. I’ve also created projects like Aged Out, which highlights the struggles of youth aging out of foster care, and Left Behind, which focuses on the emotional impact of youth whose parents are deported. These stories aim to bring attention to the challenges that often go unnoticed in our society. Read more>>
Hannah Levy
The most meaningful project I’ve been working on is The Rebis (www.therebis.com), an annual print publication devoted to tarot, art, and creative writing. It’s an ongoing project—I released the third volume in Fall 2024 and will begin work on the next issue in Spring 2025. The Rebis is a tarot-themed literary journal: each issue brings an international group of artists and writers together to explore a single tarot card (we’ve covered The Wheel of Fortune, The Chariot, and now The Star). The idea for the publication came to me suddenly in February 2022. I had recently stepped back from my full-time job running brand and content marketing programs for tech companies and was recovering from severe burnout. While I was grateful to have the privilege to go on sabbatical, it was a very uncomfortable experience emotionally; I had been living and breathing the hustle/girlboss culture for the previous 14 years and had internalized the fast-paced (and incredibly toxic) “grow at all costs” mentality. Moving slower, with intention, I started questioning my values and priorities and started an excruciating process of unlearning. I craved creativity and art-making, and I wanted to be in community with others who shared my values. Read more>>
Lvf Lvx
Writing So, I Married My Shadow: Poetry & Reflections has been a journey of experiential learning. Through exploration, each poem uncovered a lesson that I trust resonates with anyone who may be navigating despair or feeling lost in their marriage or significant relationships. Through this work, I confronted the darkest parts of my experience—especially the struggle to rebuild myself when my marriage felt irreparably broken. The process of writing this book taught me how to make sense of suffering by unveiling universal truths hidden in personal struggle. I explored themes of death and rebirth, the parallels between our consciousness and the sun, and the wisdom of the Sephirot as a guiding light to find strength, compassion, and humility when we feel burdened by our circumstances. This project was not only a journey of self-discovery but also a means to offer others a path forward, showing that in our darkest moments, there are lessons that can heal and inspire. In the end, So, I Married My Shadow embodies the transformation of inner conflict into personal growth, offering insights that I hope can inspire self-reflection and healing in others, as well. Read more>>
Maia Sylba
Throughout my career as a designer, consultant, curator, and editor of a visual arts magazine, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with a wide array of talented professionals, artists, and creatives. The projects I’ve worked on have been inspiring, diverse, and often evocative, pushing the boundaries of creativity in meaningful ways. I’ve had the honor of collaborating with renowned galleries, academic institutions, and even television channels such as ARTE. Each of these projects has been an enriching experience, allowing me to grow and contribute to the vibrant world of the arts. Read more>>
Tony Slumz
It’s funny answering a question like this after making music for as long as I have. I started back in 2003, just as producing on computers was becoming more accessible. Back then, it wasn’t all smooth sailing—there were technical limitations, and some purists dismissed the approach. But for me, it was what was available and I was appreciative of it. Looking back, the first project is always meaningful. It’s when we, as creatives, take that leap of faith—taking an idea that’s been living in our heads and putting it out into the world to be judged, heard, and, hopefully, embraced, or not… at that point you just want some sort of response that feels more than a canned, “Good music bro”. What made that leap easier for me was not doing it alone. I came up with a group of creatives, and together we formed Deranged Affiliates. It was me, Milio, LBS, Corry Dimes, DJ Nuqular, and Mic G. Yeah, almost all the names have changed or evolved since then—it was the early 2000s after all—but that sense of community and shared vision made it special. Read more>>
Denise Cesare
One of the significant risks I’ve taken in my life was writing my book, “Moments in Motion with Love.” This journey began in the most unexpected way—through a vivid dream. In that dream, the entire concept of the book came to me, almost like a gift from my subconscious. It was a moment where I truly had to take a chance and listen to my inner voice. The idea of transforming that dream into a reality,. I had never embarked on such a significant creative endeavor before, and the uncertainty loomed large. Yet, there was something incredibly powerful and reassuring about that dream—it felt like a calling that I couldn’t ignore. With determination, I followed through. I dedicated time to capturing the essence of what I had envisioned. There were moments of doubt and challenge, but every step felt aligned with my true self. As I poured my heart into the pages, the risk transformed into a labor of love. Read more>>
Isabelle Winardi
My favorite project thus far has been taking my childhood friend’s engagement photos. We met in high school as part of our school’s badminton club (which eventually became the school’s first badminton team) and remained friends after graduation. Although we didn’t spend as much time together during our adult days compared to when we were kids, we still kept in touch throughout the years. One day, she messaged me saying that she had gotten engaged, and that she would be delighted if I could take her engagement photos. I was not only extremely happy for my friend, I was also extremely honored that she would ask me to be her photographer! Read more>>
Isaac Byrne
I’ve spent most of my career as a theatre director of new plays and a teacher. It’s been wonderful and incredibly rewarding. Helping artists grow, or helping a playwright get their perspective and artistic goals across to an audience in meaningful ways has been an amazing artistic life. But in two weeks, I will be doing something entirely new, terrifying, and exhilarating: directing a film. After 20+ years of working solely in theatre, I’m learning all new terms, necessities, and skills. I started writing plays in 2019, and the level of vulnerability that comes with being a writer was a shock to the system. The intensity of other people speaking your words and revealing how your heart and mind experiences the world—cannot be overstated. It’s a wild, painful, and joyous ride. Read more>>
Ruonan Jiang
Art often draws from personal experiences, and, in turn, it can inspire others to reflect on their own lives. In the summer of 2024, I had the opportunity of filming a documentary that became one of the most meaningful projects I’ve ever worked on. It tells the story of Mingdong Gan, a young man who overcame a turbulent childhood as a left-behind child in China’s Sichuan Mountains to become a ranger navigating fatherhood while taking care of a rescued wild animal and protecting his homeland’s biodiversity. Read more>>
Jen Alt
My most meaningful piece is one of the first tufted wall rugs I ever made. It holds great meaning because of what it represents to me. In it I see vulnerability and subsequent strength in allowing myself to play with materials and a medium virtually unknown to me. It also helps that I was falling in love with the medium at the same time. It reminds me that there is power in following your intuition. I love the textural and sculptural aspects of tufting. You can create so much dimension with a single color in a tufted wall rug. In this piece I feel that I was able to trust the process and ended up with a work that I love. Read more>>
Cynthia Hagedorn
One of the most meaningful projects I’ve worked on stems from my nonprofit organization, where I paint with children and adults navigating various health and life challenges. Every time I engage in these creative sessions, I’m profoundly inspired and grateful to witness individuals expressing themselves through color and finding healing in the process. Each experience is special, but one stands out—working with Aaron, a remarkable teenager with a brain tumor. Read more>>
Angelina Rataj
One really meaningful project to me is this series of portraits I did for my thesis class in college. We were prompted to create a semester-long project for ourselves. Something we were really passionate about. I was forced to look inwards and really ask myself what kind of work I want to be creating? I had this idea to paint portraits of artists I listen to, but I wanted a way to invite them into my world the same way their music allowed me into theirs. I have always had a love for music. The way that an artist can create an atmosphere and keep it consistent through the visuals and the sound of the music itself inspires me. The three artists I chose to paint were MF DOOM, Method Man, and Tyler, The Creator. Only to make these portraits unique to me, I inserted this little devil character I created. In each portrait he is interacting with the subject in some way. The process I went through in planning and making these paintings shifted my perspective in what I want to do in my work. I feel like it set me on the path I’m on now. I realized a lot of things about myself and the kind of work I want to create throughout this series. Read more>>
Jiahui Yu
The most meaningful project I’ve worked on is a mental health platform called Mindmender. This project is particularly meaningful to me because it addresses a societal issue that has personally touched my life. I’ve witnessed friends and family struggle with mental health challenges but avoid seeking help due to societal stigma. This inspired me to create a solution that could bridge this gap and provide support in a non-judgmental and accessible way. The idea for Mindmender came from our team’s shared belief that mental health awareness is crucial in today’s high-pressure social environment. Our diverse team, which included individuals with psychology and design backgrounds, aimed to make mental health care more approachable. We designed interactive features, such as AI-driven emotion recognition and virtual avatars, to create a safe space for users to explore their emotions and access tailored recommendations. The platform also integrates gamification and community support features to keep users engaged while promoting healing and self-awareness. Read more>>
Lena Embry
I would like to say that every composition I write is a meaningful project. However, some songs teach me more than others. Often and oddly, I find myself writing music/lyrics about something before that situation has come full circle. I can usually finish the song and tie it in a bow before the situation itself has come to a close. Once it all plays out in real time I see that I already had the answers in the song. This always feels meaningful because I think it shows me that my intuitive emotions are ahead of everything else. Writing then becomes this very spiritual process of trying to intently listen to all those little whispers. Read more>>
Megan Lingerfelt
Some of the most meaningful projects I’ve worked on are not powerful because of the image created, but because it was located in a small town without a lot of public art. These towns always know how to make me feel welcome and appreciated and so the experience of creating these murals is satisfying on multiple levels. In Viola,TN I was granted the opportunity to paint something I’d been wanting to share for quite some time: a stylized magnolia design. Viola was once the smallest incorporated area in TN and is mostly rural with one small stretch of a downtown along hwy 127. The magnolia mural is right on this stretch and now brightens up what once was a raw concrete wall. Additionally, it was my first project with DMA Events, who I’ve worked with several times since, exclusively in small main streets across the state. Read more>>
Maria Victoria Jiménez
My greatest achievement has been my last three projects, the photographs taken were selected as the cover of Goji magazine and were selected too on the Photo Vogue platform of Vogue magazine. All three have been personal projects where I have been in charge of doing all the creative direction, photography and videos. At my lowest creative moment, I set myself a challenge to break the mold of “ What camera do you use?” Using and IPhone 15 pro max for the projects, I wanted to prove myself that my talent is unique no matter what device I use to do it, since I had imposter syndrome for many months which kept me stuck. Read more>>
Woodlene Alexis
I chose to leave behind the noise, restrictions, and survival mode of living in New York City during the pandemic. At the time, I was searching for inner peace amidst external chaos. Like many, I experienced life changes during the global shift of COVID-19. I sought out an environment that naturally fostered tranquility. As an actor, model, and voiceover artist, recording quality work requires a supportive setting. Moving to the suburbs of Miami allowed me to create the peaceful space I needed while focusing on personal growth. I began attending meditation workshops under the warm sun and salt water air. In one exercise, we visualized our higher selves—the person we aspire to be. My imagination led me to an unfamiliar mountain where I envisioned a calm, balanced, and peaceful version of myself. She had a shaved head and wore a monk-like outfit, a surprising image since I’ve never been a Buddhist. The exercise was transformative, showing me the state of consciousness I wanted to embody. This realization inspired me to pause my career, focus inward, and heal wounds. Read more>>
Linda Jurkiewicz
The most meaningful project I’ve created was an installation titled, “Who Will Hear My Plea?”. For this, my third solo show, I was inspired by the beautiful and haunting Renaissance paintings of Saint Agatha holding her breasts on a plate and Saint Lucia’s eyes blossoming from a stem. I paused to wonder how might I explore these women who had deep belief, deep convictions, strong personalities and challenging paths? How could I connect their lives with women in the 21st century? Read more>>
Erik Jacobsen
The most meaningful project I’ve worked on is my “Food for Thought” series. It was the first series I worked on in the paper art medium, and the first series I shared publicly back in 2018. It was inspired by food and candy packaging I saw as discarded trash on the sidewalks of NYC. While walking to the subway for work, I would often find myself photographing various wrappers on the street and imagining how I could reinterpret the packaging to relate to my present day experiences. It felt like a tumultuous moment politically and socially, and also a time when I felt my rights as a gay person were again up for debate. This series was a therapeutic outlet for me to assert myself unapologetically and own who I am. The grit of NYC has always inspired me immensely and I was drawn to these torn up colorful wrappers (many of which were candies and treats I loved as a kid) within the context of my lost innocence. This inspiration felt like a nice metaphor for shedding some skin and coming into my own. Read more>>
Minoe
My own music means a lot to me, but lately I’ve been really happy writing for other artists. It means so much to be able to help someone translate their thoughts and emotion into a song they truly love. It feels really fulfilling to me. Read more>>
Alyce Gottesman
While traveling in India in 2017 I became enamored with the vibrancy and spirit of the culture, which I saw reflected in the brightly colored textiles and abundance of marigolds in bright oranges and yellows. As I traveled throughout the country, I absorbed all of this and later channeled it into a series of lively, highly saturated paintings with new colors added to my palette. My exposure to the beautifully colored and embellished saris worn by the women piqued my interest in textiles. Over time, the inspiration to sew and work with fabrics emerged and became part of my art practice, with a focus on patterns and physical Read more>>
John And Nancy Doughney
The creation of our outdoor mosaic art gallery over several years has been one of our most satisfying projects. This was born out of the need to use all the scrap glass we had accumulated over the years of doing stained glass. Our first glass on glass mosaics began with two detached antique hutch doors purchased at an antique mall ten years ago. We sought out old windows and tabletops that were discarded and continued creating pieces. At the present time we have 22 mosaics positioned throughout our yard ranging in size from a 24 in. circle to over 13 ft. triptych of dolphins. What is so special about our personal gallery is that each piece challenged us in a new way whether it was the size, the subject matter, or the style we wanted to create. We believe our reward for our work is the opportunity to enjoy it each day and share it with others who come to visit. Read more>>
Shira Levin
Each project I work on is meaningful to me at the time I make it. Each in a different way. Since I’d rather look forward than back, I’d say that my most recent film, a feature documentary, ‘Forty Years in a Box’ was quite meaningful in a variety of ways. First of all, it was born from disappointment. Several years before, I had made my first feature film, ‘Starfish’ (narrative fiction), after having done three short films. I was hoping that my second feature film would be of a script I had written after completing ‘Starfish’. However, all the hopes I had were dashed when the person who was going to help me get it produced, turned out to be ultimately unreliable. So I decided to part ways. In order to help myself let go of this project emotionally, I knew I had to create something to take its place. I realized it was time to tackle the box of 16mm footage that had been sitting in my closet for 20 years. Read more>>
Marryam Moma
Creating art that confronts environmental injustice took on heightened urgency against the backdrop of COVID-19. When Popular Science Magazine commissioned me to create three paper cut collages highlighting Cancer Alley for their October 2020 winter issue, we were still grappling with a global pandemic that had laid bare the intimate connections between environmental health and human survival. Cancer Alley’s reality was even more devastating in this context: predominantly Black communities along Louisiana’s Mississippi River corridor faced a dual crisis – chronic exposure to chemical plant pollution while navigating a respiratory pandemic that posed additional risks to compromised immune systems. The proposed Formosa Plastics plant site carried yet another layer of injury, as it would desecrate unmarked slave burial grounds – interweaving historical trauma, environmental racism, and contemporary public health catastrophe. Read more>>
Jones
By far, the most meaningful project I’ve worked on was the curation of a Soul/R&B Concert titled “King of Hearts”. The reason is was so meaningful is because it was the first time I bet everything on myself while aiming to raise money for charity. It also was a very important litmus test on the believability of my vision and who was in support of it. I learned a great deal about event curation, people, and mostly myself with this experience. Read more>>
Bailey Day
The first creative conference I produced, a small, regional comic convention in upstate New York, gave me one of my most meaningful experiences that I will remember for years to come. I was the project manager for a team of about 50 people, all working together in different departments over a 5 month span to put on a two day conference. We load all of the vendors in bright and early on Saturday, work all day Saturday-Sunday hosting the event, and clear out like it never happened on that same Sunday night. The days and nights are long, working the event during the day, and hosting special guests for dinner and networking events in the evening, so to say you get a full nights rest throughout the weekend would be a lie! Read more>>
Shaoyang Chen
Telling stories through visuals has always been at the heart of my creative journey. It’s more than a passion—it’s an obsession that drives me to explore, connect, and reflect. Great stories, especially those filled with depth and honesty, have a way of keeping me grounded, reminding me of the power of shared human experiences. Throughout my journey, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to meet amazing people who’ve helped me broaden my perspective, deepen my sense of culture, and see a bigger world. One of the most profound realizations I’ve had is the lack of diversity in the representation of Asian cultures in mainstream media and entertainment. That realization inspired me to create an art piece—a family album that weaves together Asian film stills and vintage objects from around the world. This project celebrates the diversity and collective memory of “home” across various Asian cultures. Read more>>
Suzanne Kubach
Asking if one of my paintings is more meaningful than others is a little like asking a mom which kid is her favorite. Each of my pictures tells a story, and when a collector connects with that, they often want to bring that painting home. However, when a collector reaches out to commission a piece, they bring their own meaning to the project. That collaboration sets my commissioned paintings apart. With commissions, a collector’s preferences might influence everything from design to color palettes to the final name of the piece. Each project is different, and the relationship I build with the collector as I work is a part of what makes commissions meaningful for me. Read more>>
Yuto Mitomi
The most meaningful project I’ve worked on was recording my second jazz album in Fall 2021. It was a time of deep uncertainty due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which brought unique challenges and limitations to creative work. During the pandemic, live performances were scarce, and collaboration felt almost impossible due to restrictions. On the other hand, I was fortunate to have an incredible opportunity to record with world-renowned musicians for this project because they were staying in their home city and were more flexible than usual. Normally, these artists are constantly touring, and scheduling even one recording day would have been nearly impossible. The unusual circumstances of that time allowed us to come together, creating something truly special. Read more>>
Carter Crosby
I finally released my first EP! It’s something I’ve wanted to do for years, but nothing ever felt ready. Then, early last year, I wrote Providence. In this EP I explore themes of family, identity, and personal growth, and experiment with extremely minimal production in an effort to create a more intimate and accessible sound. But, what I’m most excited to do is communicate in the most effective way I know how— with my guitar. Available on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music. Feel free to check it out, and let me know what you think! Read more>>
Toni Toney
One of the most meaningful projects I’ve worked on is my recent solo show concept, Life Behind the Fence: Echoes of Incarceration. This project has deep roots in my personal journey as an artist and in the stories that often go untold in society. I began seriously painting for myself in 2018, reclaiming my identity as an artist after being told as a child that art wasn’t my gift. The theme of Life Behind the Fence emerged from my reflections on justice, confinement, and resilience. The show is envisioned to explore the emotional and social impact of incarceration, offering a platform to amplify voices that are often silenced. Read more>>
Oscar Alanis
My record label started as something casual—I was recording a few of my friends who were talented musicians. We’d hang out, freestyle, and experiment with different sounds. At first, it was just for fun, but as I kept recording, I realized there was real potential in their music. I decided to take it seriously and treated the sessions as professional projects. I taught myself audio editing, learned the basics of mixing and mastering, and even bought better equipment I thought, “Why not release this?”I researched how to publish music and launched an independent record label. It was a steep learning curve—handling contracts, marketing, and distribution—but it taught me so much about leadership and entrepreneurship. The first single gained traction locally, and that motivated me to expand. Over time, we signed more artists and released several projects. Read more>>
Lauren Logiudice
Probably every project I do is the most meaningful, because I think I’m genetically wired to not be able to work on something that I’m not passionate about. So I’ll only take the time to create something or say yes to something if it’s in my heart. What I’m working on now is comedy related to the misfit experience—feeling outside the box and like I never fit in. I grew up not looking like my family and feeling like an outsider. I most recently found out that I’m a sperm donor child. I’ve also dealt with many issues of identity as a queer person, both in terms of sexuality and gender. I feel like I’m constantly navigating shifting identities. I hope to create comedy shows and online content that can create spaces for other people who feel the same, so that they can heal as well. Read more>>
Katrina Sotera
The most transformative project I’ve worked on would have to be my debut EP, Notes on Becoming. Before releasing this EP, my relationship with music was surrounded by anxiety, fear, and impostor syndrome. I wrote music in my own little bubble, and it took a lot of urging from my community in order to perform. I knew that I could sing and that I loved writing songs, but I never felt that my music sounded special or unique enough to release professionally. It took years to break through that wall. Once, I had a coworker, a former member of the Grammy Award-nominated group Sweet Honey in the Rock, tell me that my voice was a gift, and if I did not use my gift, it was a disservice. That moment happened almost 10 years ago, but I remember so clearly, telling myself to move past my fears and release my music. Finally, later that year I publicly sang my song “Monster” for the first time. It eventually became the single for Notes on Becoming. Read more>>
Katy Tunbridge
The most meaningful project I’ve worked on is undoubtedly my debut album, recorded in Nashville. This project is incredibly special to me because it encapsulates my journey as an artist and showcases collaborations with some of the industry’s finest talents. Prior to this album, I had the privilege to work with Willie Brown Jr., known for his work with Alicia Keys, Janelle Monáe, and Patti LaBelle; Peewee Hill, who has collaborated with legends like Sly Stone and Billy Preston; Les King, known for his work with Tom Jones, Ken Stacey, who has worked with the likes of Madonna, Michael Jackson, Phil Collins, and Richard Marx; and Bruce Watson from Foreigner. Read more>>
John Moses
It’s difficult to narrow it down to one there are three that come to mind. The struggle is between undergraduate thesis work of inviting myself to family dinners and making custom serving ware for each menu, the ‘Doodle Books’ I’ve kept for the last seven years, and the poetry I’ve spent the last few years working on. If I have to pick just one though it’s my Doodle Books. In 2017 I was working in higher education as a part of a team designing curriculum and implementing residential learning experience for highly gifted youth. It was great work and I greatly enjoyed it but consuming as well. Between the regular job, teaching in a community arts studio, and just life – I realized in the fall of that year that I hadn’t filled a sketch book in ages. Part of this was due to the number of sketch books I tote around on a daily basis. If you find me in the wild, I typically have a minimum of five on me. Read more>>
Abe Snider
This is a really difficult one to answer, but the more I think about it, I keep coming back to the long-term project I spent several years working on focusing on capturing the full width of the visible Milky Way. When my wife and I were traveling overseas on and off between 2011 and 2016 I kept noticing the sky at night would look significantly different depending on which hemisphere and season I was visiting. In the northern hemisphere the sky and constellations such as Orion and the position of the galactic core were completely different than when I looked up in New Zealand or Australia. In fact, the Moon was upside down from what I was used to seeing in the southern hemisphere, because of course I was upside down on the bottom of the globe. I realized quickly that certain constellations and parts of our home galaxy were only visible in certain places, not factoring in the weather, moon phases etc Read more>>
Rushan Jesani
One of the most meaningful projects I’ve worked on is Khadda, my thesis film. It’s a story that’s very close to my heart, inspired by personal experiences that challenged me, shaped me, and made me stronger. The film tells the story of a wealthy football player who, despite facing bias and skepticism, is determined to earn his rightful place on the team. It explores the theme of overcoming stereotypes, especially the idea that privilege means you don’t need to work hard. It’s tough to convey the struggles of a privileged individual because these challenges are often misunderstood or dismissed. But I wanted to show that everyone, regardless of background, has their own obstacles to overcome, and it’s dedication and effort that truly matter. Read more>>
Ken Lewis
My animated series on TikTok/IG/YouTube has been my most meaningful project to date. I grew up in the 80s in the urban middle America town of Gary, Indiana located just outside of Chicago. This was before social media, cable television, and all the things to distract us today. The best part about growing up in the 80s is that we got to experience the birth of a genre of music which was once considered a “fad” that would ultimately end up one of the top selling music genres. “Gangsta Island” is a FULLY ANIMATED podcast dedicated to the “Golden Age of Hip-Hop”, focusing on the 80s and 90s. I felt making it an animation would add to the innovation of it all as well as make it more visually pleasing with all the old school props (e.g., boom box, vinyl record player, etc.). I often feel like the essence of hip-hop in the 80s have been lost in the commercialized world that we live in. “Gangsta Island” has already amassed over 115K TikTok followers and over 50K Instagram followers in just under 6 months from inception. Read more>>
Ginevra Petrucci
I am privileged to hold dual roles as principal flutist and administrator with the Chamber Orchestra of New York, a group that is incredibly close to my heart. This ensemble was the first orchestra I joined upon moving to the U.S., and over nearly 15 years of collaboration, it has become like family. Watching the orchestra evolve and thrive, particularly since I took on a leadership role, has been deeply fulfilling. In addition to carrying out our entire concert season at Carnegie Hall, we partner with multiple brands for high-end events, movie premieres, and galas. In the last few years we collaborated with Disney, the Metropolitan Museum, Dolce & Gabbana, Kith, and many others, and this adds a really exciting extra dimension to our orchestral experience. Read more>>
Salar Rajabnik
Certainly my current focus, which is the music I’m putting out under the moniker/band name “Darker Lighter”. It’s the culmination of all of my artistic and musical experiences up until this point, but also in a way something of a return to my musical and aesthetic roots. In that way it’s something of a hybrid between evolution as an artist and still keeping a foot in your foundation, while not compromising on any level artistically. Read more>>
Theresa Miller
My most recent and meaningful project is writing a six-week Bible Study, The Posture of Victory: Finding True Peace amidst Our Everyday Battles. The following provides some background on writing this study: While standing in my kitchen, my sister and I discussed the powerful concept of victory in Christ. She shared an inspiring talk she had heard on Christ’s victory, and I enthusiastically agreed with her. A few days later, I found myself battling lies that swirled in my mind so fast my head spun. I might have exploded if I heard one more person exclaim, “We have victory in Jesus!” I later realized something crucial that many people overlook in their Christian walks: proclaiming victory is one thing, but walking confidently in that victory is another. Read more>>
Bruja Thevillain
When I was asked to reflect on my most meaningful project, my mind immediately turned to The Baggage Claim. This exhibit was born out of a deeply personal and transformative moment in my life. Following an assault, I found myself navigating the isolating weight of trauma. During that time, only a few close friends stood by me and it was tough asking anyone for help. Most people didn’t know how to help me carry the emotional and mental burdens that felt unbearable but there was some support that inspired me to explore the concept of shared burdens and the humanity it takes to carry not only our own baggage but also that of others. Read more>>
Georgina Tolentino
The most recent meaningful project was “No Dogs” which is being made into a feature about the Watsonville riots. The short film (available on YouTube), centers around two characters on the opposite side of a race riot, stuck in a diner and confronting their views. The project was created during the pandemic as a short and I had the privilege to work with Alex Fabros, a historical consultant specializing in Asian American studies and Filipino American history. This project was truly meaningful in seeing his work be reflected in media and being able to reach young people. I believe knowledge is power, and sometimes hidden histories don’t get the access they deserve. But seeing young people and new generation share how this knowledge empowered them about Filipino history is truly meaningful . The world we live in now could really use important conversations , and a lesson to not repeat history. Read more>>
Shaun Fury
The most meaningful project I’ve worked on is building the foundation of the natural bodybuilding movement. This project isn’t just about lifting weights or competing in shows; it’s a mission to inspire others to believe in their potential and embrace the discipline, dedication, and resilience required to reach their peak—naturally. This movement started as a personal journey. I wanted to see how far I could push my own limits without shortcuts or enhancements, focusing on what the human body and spirit are capable of when fueled by pure effort and self-belief. As I progressed, I realized my story resonated with so many others who were seeking authenticity and a path to greatness that felt true to who they were. Read more>>
C. Andrew Hall
I’m a television producer & editor at my day job. But my most meaningful project is Functional Magic – a climate art non-profit I founded in 2021. Global warming will present many challenges for communities all over the world over the next century and beyond. But climate change also presents an opportunity to re-examine the kinds of societies we want and how we power them. There is nothing stopping humans from creating a literal paradise on Earth. But the stories artists tell about the future are typically dystopian. Functional Magic aims to correct that by creating artwork that is hopeful, that imagines awesome possible futures. This is sorely needed and an area where artists & storytellers are failing their audiences. Read more>>
Monica Remes
Before I lived in Los Angeles, I lived in Salt Lake City, Utah. I performed, choreographed, and taught classes with multiple dance companies there, including one that was founded by me and two of my best friends. One of the companies I was in, Sugar Space Co.Da, was a cooperative dance company. I got to choreograph a piece on that company and to this day it is still one of my favorite things I’ve ever created. I titled the piece “Hips, Quakes, and Stones”. It was a celebration and exploration of iconic women in rock n’ roll. I worked with my dancers to find movement that they themselves developed and created while listening to the likes of Joan Jett, Heart, Pat Benatar, Stevie Nicks, No Doubt, Tina Turner, etc. I also watched live performances of these iconic front women and took inspiration from the way they moved on stage while performing. The piece was meant to celebrate these women, these forces of nature, to rock out to their music, dance to their music, and be inspired by their music, whether it was experienced at a live concert or listening through headphones in your bedroom. I also received the best choreographic review of my life in the local dance magazine! I would love to someday reset that piece on dancers here in Los Angeles. Read more>>
Louis Robert King
Most of my career has been spent creating music for the purpose of supporting a larger entity. Early on it was composing music for national television ads, later it evolved into creating music for film and series. In 2023, as a member of The Ironsides, we released the album “Changing Light”. This was the first large scale project of music for music’s sake that I’ve introduced to the world. The album is a collection of instrumentals featuring a traditional soul/r&b rhythm section with a live orchestra. Although the music is cinematic in scale and mood, its inspiration comes from a variety of musical influences. I’ve been lucky enough to be a part of some amazing projects, but the opportunity for creative expression that wasn’t mirroring a larger narrative was an extremely satisfying experience. The most meaningful outcome of the album has been the overwhelmingly positive response it has received. There’s nothing quite like having someone tell you how much your music means to them. Read more>>
Simlev
The most meaningful project I’ve ever worked on is likely Krokmitën’s first album, Alpha-Beta. This was an ambitious undertaking—a 46-minute continuous song and album, accompanied by a full-length animated lyric video. It was both a creative endeavor and a learning ground, where I immersed myself in recording, video animation, and editing. Through this project, I not only honed my technical skills but also developed a workflow for composing, recording, and streamlining my process. Alpha-Beta became the foundation for Krokmitën’s sonic and visual identity, allowing me to bring my artistic vision to life. Read more>>
Yitzchok Moully
https://www.moullyart.com/overflowing-blessings Overflowing blessings interactive experiences, is one of my meaningful projects. It brings together interactive art, gratitude, sculpture, and smiles. To bring communities together, and give them an opportunity to pause, think of things in their life that they are deeply grateful for, and be able to share that gratitude publicly. The finished artwork sits on display in their community, giving them the chance to remember that gratitude, the joy they had in participating, and the smiles of brings to everyone seeing and overflowing cup full of blessings. Read more>>
Maxx Slater
One of my first pieces that I ever did is called ‘conversations with the sky’ and it’s painted in the memory of my late grandfather. At the time, the sky was the perfect shade of pink mixed with orange, red, blue, and white with the puffy clouds. All blending together but separate, and also one. My grandfather and I used to go out fishing alot when I was younger, and alot of times we could be coming back in on the boat at a time when the sky looked exactly the same way as it did the evening I painted that piece. I love to let my work speak for itself, and I wanted this piece to reassure anyone out there who’s lost a loved one, that the conversations don’t have to end, I believe that we still have them, just in a different way now. It’s all about what you feel and what you’re open to. Meaningful projects are the lifeblood of an artist. All we want is to be able to speak in our hones most authentic ways Read more>>
Rachel Adina Mullen
The most meaningful project I’ve worked on as of today, is writing my cookbook, Vegan Flavors of the World. This project allowed me to bring together my passions for plant-based cooking, cultural exploration, and creative storytelling in one place. The idea for the cookbook began as a collection of notes and recipes from my travels, where I experienced the diverse flavors and techniques of different cuisines firsthand. I wanted to showcase how plant-based ingredients could honor traditional dishes without losing their cultural essence. The recipes came to life through my travels and my passion for recreating traditional dishes in a plant-based way that stays true to the originals. Each recipe tells a story, inspired by the cultures I’ve encountered and my personal discoveries around the world. Read more>>
Paul South
One of the most meaningful projects I have worked on was an indie horror film I shot in 2022 called The Bellman. The Bellman is a throwback to the golden age of slashers. It was heavily influenced by the Italian giallo genre and filmmakers like Dario Argento, Mario Bava and Sergio Martino. To add to this retro vibe, we shot the movie entirely on Super 8mm film using equipment from the 1960s. We set the locations in older parts of Kansas City like the art deco Hotel Phillips and the River Market. Many audience members have told us that the film looked like something that came out of a time capsule. Read more>>
Manon Wada
The most meaningful, recent project I’ve worked on was with artist Jessica Higgins that culminated in a show called ECHOES curated by Jeffrey Perkins at The Emily Harvey Foundation in New York City last year in November 2023. The exhibition centered around a large video projection, a collaborative installation, individual works, and a site-specific performance. My late father, Yoshi Wada, was a sound installation artist and passed away in 2021. I had been making a body of work using inherited materials from him and in the process I was connected with both Jessica and Jeffrey. Jessica’s mother, Alison Knowles, and my father were artist friends and both members of the art movement Fluxus. The Emily Harvey Foundation is located in SoHo in a historic Fluxhouse, which is where my family used to live. The project aligned auspiciously with the event taking place on what would have been my father’s 80th birthday on November 11th, and in that same year, Jessica’s mother celebrated her 90th birthday. The constellation of the individuals involved, the site, and the timeframe, made this project resonate in a profound way. Read more>>
Vivi John
“Every Day is a Good Day” is an exploration and tribute to the traditional Chinese calendar, which we tear off a page as each day ends. Although we no longer see traditional wall calendars hanging on walls in our homes as often among the younger generation, I have always admired this typology and its importance to society and cultural preservation. Using the traditional lunar calendar as a starting point, I decided to revisit and reimagine a new one. Read more>>
Scott Lee
I released an Album January 2024 called “Junk Drawer Dimes”. I funded the project by myself and wrote all of the songs and, with the help of my producer, I collected a group of the most talented musicians in Columbus, Ohio to help make my vision come to light. It’s a ten song album that includes brand new songs, as well as old songs that were apart of a failed project in 2012. I got the name “Junk Drawer Dimes” from the idea that those old songs hidden for so long still have truth and meaning and deserve to see the light of day, and I feel like that describes me as well, and I know others feel the same. Read more>>
L G Boyle
Seasoned the series where I am a singer, songwriter, and vocal coach. Thank you Lord, a collaborative effort with Comfort People Ministries out of Rwanda, the heart of Africa. The Chosen Chronicles, a fantasy adventure YA series available on Amazon. Five songs released and streaming on all digital platforms. Read more>>
Darius Moore
Every project has led to the next project I have had the opportunity to work on. In 2023 I wrote the script, filmed, and edited the short film Guilty Conscience which premiered on YouTube.com/Darius2L. This film highlights the importance of critical thinking and choosing wisely in any given situation. Shortly after filming this I was presented with the opportunity to adapt the novel Commandments of a Female Hustler, written by Stacey Fenner-Blackwell. My production Company 2Live Network was hired to Film and Edit this project, while I also Directed the project along side with Stacey Fenner-Blackwell. Read more>>
Alejandre Rodriguez
The first ever full sleeve project I took on, I stumbled on by scrolling on Instagram. My client, Alex, was actively seeking a tattoo artist to take on a tattoo concept that they had in mind for the past five years. They wanted their artist to be a queer, trans person of color, and capable of doing clean lines, geometric shapes, and some shading. I volunteered myself not realizing this would be the most challenging and meaningful tattoo I’ve ever taken on. Alex briefed me on their idea over voice memo, this was the easiest way to convey such a complex concept. Alex wanted a section from the book “Places That Scare You” by Pema Chödrön, which added up to 180 words, going from the top of their shoulder down to their wrist. The words would flow down their arm, crossing paths like the paths of their veins, along the way there would be triangles with realistic nature scenes in them. In one of them, a scene of a retro scuba diver diving into the deep ocean, another triangle with a night sky with stars in them. Then, a triangle with dried crunchy fall leaves and pebbles on the ground. Additionally, they wanted the quote to end at an existing quote at the bottom of the wrist. All this on a budget that is lower than my usual rate. Read more>>
Stephen Parisi
This question brought up so many memories, working with my friends on their albums and projects always brings me so much fulfillment, But the the most meaningful project that I have worked on is my first upcoming album “Buddy.” The album features all original compositions that were written about moving to Chicago from Buffalo. Each song on the album is dedicated to a friend or Family member that helped prepare me to take on life as a musician. All of the songs have a story or a reason why they are dedicated to these people. In addition to the subject matter it meant alot to me to have some of my best friends and mentions involved in the project. Read more>>
Andrew Frink
Nonna Mia started as a small test project. Meg and I wanted to see how well we worked together professionally since we worked so well romantically. We talked to various writers and artists from the comic book industry about the idea of us working together on a graphic novel. The responses were mixed. Some said it was a good way to end a relationship, others said that they were surprised we hadn’t done it already. Meg is an illustrator with multiple self-published works under their belt. I am a screenwriter with a decent portfolio and moderate experience writing comics as well. The fact that we weren’t knee deep in drafts was shocking. Either way, the consensus from the pros was clear; Writing a comic together was either going to make or break our relationship. Read more>>
Larry Love
I entered and won an international anti-tobacco poetry contest which I entered just months after the passing of my mother due to a tobacco related lung disease. I wrote and submitted the poem the night before the entry deadline. It was one of the most difficult pieces I had ever written, particularly just after spending months as my mother’s caregiver and being by her bedside in her final days. Needless to say, I dropped a few tears on the keyboard as I weaved my words together. Read more>>