We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Hana Bertram a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Hana thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

I’ve always been drawn to creativity since I was a child. Whether it was painting, cutting up old clothes to make outfits for my Barbies, or even modeling for M&M Candy at age 11, I was constantly immersed in creative pursuits. In college, I did a photoshoot for a friend, which ignited my interest in modeling, though I didn’t initially see it as a career path.

However, life took an unexpected 360 when I came home from college pregnant. I was overwhelmed and felt like I was falling behind while my friends were finishing their schooling and exploring their paths. As I prepared for motherhood, I focused on creating a stable and loving environment for my daughter.

Once she arrived, I had the opportunity to shoot again with a friend who was just starting her photography business. That experience rekindled my passion for modeling. With the newfound confidence and perspective that motherhood had given me, I decided to fully pursue modeling. I began working with local photographers, honing my craft, and learning more about the art form. It was then that I truly knew this was the path I wanted to chase.

Hana, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m Hana, a 31-year-old model with a passion for creativity and artistic expression. I started my modeling career in 2018, and I had the opportunity to sign with GlacierModel Management and Dorothy Comb Miami for about two years. During that time, I worked on exciting projects with brands like Hanes, VibroSculpt, and Maidenform.

After my time with the agencies, I transitioned to freelance modeling, which has allowed me to collaborate with a variety of photographers, artists, and creative groups. My work has been featured in five different magazines, which has been a rewarding experience.

Beyond modeling, I’m also a middle school art teacher. In the classroom, I encourage my students to embrace their creativity and think outside the box, helping them to explore their own artistic paths.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of being a creative and an artist is the freedom to be myself and express my ideas without limitations. I get to create whatever I want, whenever I want, which is incredibly fulfilling. Along the way, I’ve had the opportunity to meet and collaborate with some truly amazing people who inspire me to push my boundaries even further.

But perhaps the most rewarding part of all is being able to show my daughter that she can create and be whoever she wants. Seeing her understand that creativity knows no bounds, and that she can carve out her own path, is the greatest gift of all.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

One thing I think non-creatives might struggle to understand about my journey is the emotional depth and vulnerability that comes with being an artist. Creativity isn’t just about making something visually appealing; it’s about pouring a part of yourself into your work, expressing your thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a way that’s deeply personal. This process can be both exhilarating and daunting, as it requires a level of openness that many might not realize. Being a creative means constantly seeking inspiration and pushing boundaries, which can be exhausting but also incredibly fulfilling. For me, it’s not just about the end result but about the process and the connections made along the way. I hope that by sharing this insight, others might better understand the unique joys and challenges that come with pursuing a creative life—and perhaps even feel encouraged to explore their own creativity.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: hbertram_

Image Credits

Deku @robbiisan
Alex Mckay @amprostudios
Nicole Tomaselli @ushu.co
RJ Williams @shotbyrwj
Cassandra Elise @kahhsee