Earning that first dollar is incredibly special and a moment many never forget. We asked some very talented creatives from the community to tell us the story of the first dollar they earned from their creative works.
Kay Cote
When I launched Amplify EDM, becoming an event company wasn’t even part of the plan. The original vision was simple: create a platform to connect music industry professionals and highlight local talent. We threw free DJ parties as a way to foster connections and celebrate creativity. These gatherings were fulfilling, but I started realizing that if I wanted to sustain this dream, I needed to take a bold step forward. That step came when the CEO of my day job approached me with an unexpected opportunity: help plan an annual gala for a nonprofit. At first, I was hesitant. This was a big leap from what we’d been doing, and doubts began to creep in. Could I handle a project of this scale? What if I wasn’t ready? To gain clarity, I consulted a friend in the events industry and leaned on my team for support. Finally, I decided to go for it and put together a proposal. Read more>>
Marisa Lee
The first tattoo I was able to do and earn money from was an illustration of a dripping strawberry. It was from my first flash sheet I shared on social media (@marisamlee). Once I did the proper outreach, I was able to have one of my friends let me tattoo her. She trusted me enough to let me tattoo a part of her arm and I am so grateful for that. We worked previously together at my first job in LA. I was a line cook at a coffee shop and I used to draw everyday after work in the cafe. So my coworkers were very supportive of this dream I was building, the journey I was on. Read more>>
Lucy 千卉 Ma
At the end of 2019, I participated in the *Vagina Monologues* project. Initially, I thought it would be another futile attempt at submitting my resume, but to my surprise, the director eventually approached me and asked if I would be willing to play the lead role. During the COVID time, it was a very special period, as the Chinese government had imposed strict controls on gatherings and theater attendance. This performance, already centered on a feminist theme, became even more meaningful against such a societal backdrop. Compared to the so-called “first dollar” excitement, what I felt at that moment was more a sense of tension, as the police could burst into the venue at any time and force us to stop the performance. Of course, none of this could be revealed to the audience while we were on stage. After going through this experience, I began to define myself more as an innovative and radical theater actor. I developed a deeper understanding of the significance of this profession and the responsibility it carries to speak up for others. Read more>>