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.

Bonnie Wong

I can’t picture myself doing anything else besides creating illustrations. I am very happy with the career path that I chose but it doesn’t come without doubts. Art doesn’t really make sense in my house, it never made sense to communities outside of my circle. I’d get asked when I’ll make money or when will I start looking for a job. One of my biggest fears is becoming a failure and I dread the day that becomes true. However, I can’t let that get the best of me, I have to keep working and pushing through the judgement and fears. I don’t regret anything leading up to this point in my life, nor the choices and decisions I’ve made. Setbacks cannot stop me! Read more>>

Yifeng Ma

Recently, I graduated from college with a major in illustration, and the topic of finding a job has been unavoidable for me and my fellow graduates. This is a time when I’ve been reflecting on the choice I made four years ago—to pursue a path as a creative artist rather than opting for a more conventional and stable career. Growing up, I was fortunate to have parents who encouraged me to explore a wide range of activities. I took classes in piano, sculpture, ballet, chess, and art. Of all these pursuits, art was the one that truly captivated me, and it became a constant in my life. My parents noticed my deep passion for it, as I was always drawing, whether at home or in various art classes. The turning point came during my junior year of college when representatives from ArtCenter visited one of my art classes. They showcased student work that left me spellbound. In that moment, I realized how fulfilling it would be to turn my passion into a lifelong career. With the support of my parents and those around me, I committed to this path, knowing it was what I loved most. Read more>>

Louise Liu

I can certainly say I’m happier doing art than doing any other things as a career. I used to think about turning to a more popular and generic major after finishing my second year in undergrad and preparing to decide my major. Because the environment I grew up in never considered art as a serious career, but a hobby that didn’t have any benefits.  At the time, my parents asked me if I had made up my mind since it would be tough to find related jobs in my hometown (the most popular choice at the time was art school teachers), and the industry was not mature enough. My reply was: I think choosing any other major, there will be a similar problem with job searching. So, I might as well choose something I like, I might regret it later in life if I look back and find I discarded this skill and this path. Read more>>

Luisa Pascual

I am happy as an independent creative artist. I really can’t imagine being an employee, having a schedule, going to the same place doing the same thing every day. It has only crossed my mind when business is not going well, but in reality it is not a good option for me. Read more>>

Ashlie Burgess

As a creative, I am at my happiest when I am pursuing endeavors that spark a fire inside of me. I firmly believe that there is a gravitational pull to do what you’re meant to do here on this planet. Dancing & performing have been my greatest passions since I was small. Working a regular 9-5 job has never been satisfactory. I became incredibly depressed being behind a desk & knew that to live my life to the fullest I had to go ALL IN on creative projects. It’s challenging, but that is exactly what makes it so rewarding. I get to share my personality, gifts, & wildest ideas with my community. Scary? Yes. Do I ever fail? Miserably. It doesn’t stop me from creating, it only educates me & encourages me to keep going. Read more>>

Hao Shen

This question really hits the bottom of my heart. Without a doubt, I prefer to live as an artist, despite the difficulty to get stable salaries. To begin with, as an artist, I can arrange my working schedule freely and work in a relaxed manner. For example, I can listen to audio books or music while painting without hindering the progress of my work, which would have been hard to imagine if I chose to work in a government department or school. Second, the diversified forms of artistic expression available today encourages creative workers to experiment with or discover new materials or expressions that fit and convey their ideas and works. Constant thinking and practicing are undoubtedly full of challenges and uncertainties, and I personally find that very exciting, because I can never expect in what situation I will discover the long-awaited answers and results. Read more>>

Barry Under Your Bed

I’ve got to be honest…being a creative is tough right now. We live in a world where art is consumed but often not appreciated. Arts are always the first to be defunded, but it’s the first thing people turn to when looking for entertainment. So, am I happy as a creative? Yes, I love that I get to make people laugh and smile…but it’s so hard sometimes. I can’t go back to having a regular job…can you imagine me, a monster, serving people a sandwich or as a barista?!  Read more>>