Deciding to pursue an artistic or creative career path isn’t for the faint of heart. Challenges will abound, but so many of the artists we speak with couldn’t be happier with their choice. So, we asked them about how they made the decision in the first place.

Shelley Sophia Crawford | Artist, Designer, Project Consultant

From an early age I was inspired by art and loved making art, I always knew I wanted to be an Artist. I was fortunate to attend a very creative alternative High School where experimenting with art was a large part of my studies. At this time I also apprenticed with a master mask maker and makeup up artist, who inspired me in the knowing it was possible for a woman to have a career and business doing what she loved in the arts. I became determined to make art the way I resourced myself in the world, and I was fortunate to have roll models that encouraged me in this direction. Read more>>

KerryLynne McHugh | Actor

For as long as I can remember, I have loved acting. I was far too insecure in high school to even try out for the plays. So part of why I pursue this and have continued to is for her. The high school version of me. I often think of that when I have an audition or am participating in a showcase. How the younger version of me would be so proud. Read more>>

Ember Markussen | Shamanic Guide & Ritual Breathwork Healer

When I began to do the work of healing my own wounds, I realized how few people are able to receive that healing. No one teaches us to do the inner work, yet it’s arguably the most important skill we possess. Sharing knowledge is my gift, so it only made sense to me that I give that information and those techniques to as many people as I could. I think we’re all responsible for trying to help each other grow. Even if someone only completes one session with me, or uses one resource, that’s a beginning. A ripple. It may take years to move slowly through the shadow work and wounds and generational patterns that keep us trapped…but every step brings us to a new choice. And that new choice may completely change our story. Read more>>

Jesse Perez | Theatre Maker and Educator

When I was young, I was very much into sports. Then some of my friends, right before I left elementary school suggested that I join this performance group, where they danced and sung and told stories. I really took to the telling stories part. This was all in the City of Commerce right outside East Los Angeles. It was a small community group that blew my mind. I knew I didn’t come from privilege and as a Mexican American I knew I would have to carve my own path, especially in an industry that is and was predominantly white, the theatre. I started to seek out where I can get affordable or free acting classes and as I started to sharpen my skills as a storyteller, it led me down a very exciting path, which eventually landed me in New York City. And once I knew I wanted to concentrate on telling stories, a lot of different avenues opened up for me. I became a theatre maker. With the skills I learned from the performing group, I could choreograph. By watching my mentors direct and teach I learned to do both by observing and taking notes. I eventually got into teaching acting and movement at The Juilliard School. Which then led to me being the Director of The Old Globe and University of San Diego Shiley Graduate Theatre Program. Pursuing an artistic and creative career is what feeds my soul and keeps me playful and young at heart. Read more>>