Pursuing a creative or artistic career can certainly be fulfilling, but it’s far from certain. Over the years, we’ve heard about the struggles from thousands of artists and creatives – it’s incredibly challenging and it can be tempting to wonder – what if you hadn’t pursued this path. We asked artists and creatives from across the community if they’ve every had those doubts themselves. 

Wendy Trattner

Yes. I wouldn’t trade it for anything. After I graduated from MIT, I did work in the startup world for a while, making a decent salary and living a pretty cushy lifestyle. But I made sacrifices when I decided to pursue art full-time, and honestly, I still miss some of it. The stability and structure of a 9-5. The teamwork that balanced out my weaknesses. Read More>>

Lovie Jones

I’ve come to a place of real peace with my artistry, because deep down I’ve always known it was never something I had to chase—it was something I was born into. No matter how much time passes or how life shifts, my voice and my ability to create will always be a part of me, as long as God allows me to use it. Read More>>

Sharon Kung

I am happier as a creative because it is the manifestation, insight, and embodiment of being an artist. I view the world through dance. Everything I experience is filtered through my training as an artist. Movement, space, timing, relationships. Dance shaped how I observe people, how I process what is happening around me, and how I make decisions. Read More>>

Josh Bauer

Over the past year I’ve spent a lot of time reflecting on my path as an artist. Early last year my family and I made the decision to leave Florida and move back to Ohio. We felt like we needed a change of scenery and wanted to be closer to family again. Read More>>

Anthony Parrott

I have this thought every day.. I have recently started going strictly freelance and trust me and believe me when I say it is very hard to get used to. Read More>>

Allison Green

Like many artists, I sometimes imagine what life might feel like with the stability of a “regular job”—especially now, as a single mother dedicated to meeting my daughter’s needs while continuing to live a creative life as a painter of large-scale, surreal botanical works. Read More>>

Rachel Silva

I am happy as an artist, and I honestly don’t even see it as a choice. If I don’t practice my craft, I become unwell. I’m here on this planet for a reason and that reason is to be creative. Denying that part of my life is not an option. Read More>>