Artistic and creative careers are among the most rewarding, but they also come with unique challenges. We asked some of the city’s best creatives to tell us why they choose to pursue a creative career.

Amanda Murphy | Fine Artist, Illustrator & Designer

Since I was a small child, my imagination and creativity were my best friends. I would design clothes for my barbies, write and illustrate stories, and create name keepsakes for all my friends. I have always been creative, and will always radiate creativity throughout every avenue of my life. I chose to pursue a creative career as an Artist because that is my calling, my passion, and my purpose. I have changed HOW I will create for a living many times, but one thing never changed. I know I am destined to use my creative skills for a purpose, to serve my community, connect with others, and bring joy and love through my art. Read more>>

Rita Reade | Soldering and Cooking Classes Teacher

I have always been creative since I was a little girl and not afraid to try new things. When I moved from Italy to California many years ago I had a hard time communicating, I spent a lot of time watching DIY programs on tv. It helped my Knowledge of the English language and I discovered that building and creating was what I wanted to do. I also wanted to be a stay home mom for my two boys and work from home. I started repurposing furniture and making soldered jewelry and sold my items at Vintage Markets. Fast forward few years, have been publish in National Magazine and I now teach soldering classes in So. Cal. I also teach cooking classes in our Homestead in Fallbrook, Ca. Read more>>

Jon Gregory | Illustrator & Graphic Designer

I’ve been drawing and painting since I was 4 years old, I kind of mapped out my own future you could say. It’s been nothing but rewarding for me throughout my career. Read more>>