There are so many factors that affect how our lives turn out, but one of the most interesting is how our backgrounds give us unique strengths and perspectives that affect who we are as adults. We asked rising stars from the community to tell us about their background and upbringing and how they feel it’s impacted who they are today.

Anne Marie Price | Artist

I am originally from the village of North Fond Du Lac in WI. A place where everyone knows everyone and the area schools and events really were the center of this hard working, middle class community. I grew up in a religious household that encouraged creativity but it wasn’t encouraged as a career choice. It was also very restrictive in what self expression should be so I secretly read a lot of books about favorite artists and just literature that would be disapproved of. It wasn’t the easiest childhood for a young artist who had tons of questions and was curious about everything but I found and was found by good role models and adults who could see my potential as an artist who encouraged me to do more of it. I think the early struggle of just staying true to myself and who I was really influenced me as an adult and artist in many different ways. It definitely gave me a drive to accomplish certain goals. Read more>>

Felipe Pezzoli | Musician

I am Felipe from Leucadia, Ca. Leucadian life has, to me, been about finding beauty in everyday things. Whether it be surfing, hiking, yoga, biking, swimming, or any other activity, there is a beauty to just being present. There is a beach here in Leucadia called Beacons. It’s a peaceful, family beach where a lot of surfers learn to shred. There is also a calming & loving energy that radiates. All are welcome. This is where I got the name South Beacons; when it was too crowded at Main Peak, I’d walk south to surf. South Beacons embodies so many different genres of music just as Beacons harbors all peoples lovingly. All I ask when you listen to South Beacons is to be present and enjoy. Read more>>

Unice Fernandez | Photographer

Many things play a factor in who I am today. As a Latina, first generation American, born in a small town and raised in the city have all impacted me. I’m originally from a small town called Sunnyside, Washington and was raised in Seattle, Washington. Growing up in Sunnyside was sort of like living in a bubble. It’s predominately latinos and once in a while you’ll see some people from different backgrounds but not many lol. Latino culture is beautiful and lively. It’s full of love, family and values but like many cultures it has it flaws that have been passed down for generations. I’ve had to learn to unlearn bad habits and beliefs then learning what is correct. Years later, we moved to Seattle and OMG it was a huge culture shock haha. From being surrounded by people who looked like me to now learning all about my friends and their traditions was exciting. Read more>>

Ari Puguh | Artist & Illustrator

I grew up in Indonesia and spent some time in Europe, South East Asia & the Middle East, and now I am based in the USA. My childhood experience back in Indonesia definitely leads me to my goal and purpose in life, that is to bring a positive impact on children’s world thru my art and design. Experiencing an unpleasant childhood; lived in poverty, injustices treatments, lack of support and care brought me to my mission of helping as well as motivating children no matter what circumstances and limitations they have. Believing all children should have the same right to reach whatever they want to pursue in their future, drives my need to give back on contributing to something that I was missing, giving hope and inspiration to children. My long term goal is to dedicate my works to child culture design. Read more>>