Artists and creatives face innumerable challenges given that their career path often doesn’t come with a playbook, a steady paycheck or any form of safety net. It’s definitely not easy and so we asked a few of the artists and creatives we admire to talk to us about why they chose to pursue an artistic or creative career.

James Ferrell | Photographer/Videographer

My name is James Ferrell, and I am a 21 year old surf photographer/videographer from Southern California. I was born and raised here in Southern California, and I don’t think that I will ever leave. Around middle school, I was gifted a GoPro from my grandmother for Christmas, and from there on I was hooked with photography and videography. The ocean specifically was what caught my eye. Taking photos and videos of surfers in the water has been my passion for the past 5 years and there’s not one day that goes by without me thinking of the waves. Pursuing surf photography has been such an amazing journey for me and I have met so many friends and formed so many connections with brands and professional athletes. I can’t wait to see where my photography takes me. Read more>>

D.O.V.E | Battle Rapper and Published Model

As a child I went through domestic and family violence and my escape was writing songs and dealing with the emotional abuse at home. I started going to friends houses who also rapped and growing up in Australia most of our culture in the 90s came from the United States. I was a graffiti artist as a kid and Battle rap was part of our culture. I pursued an artistic career because it was a release and acceptance into a family I never had. I released my first album in 2003. I started gaining noteriority as a artist and started rap battles in Australia for real talk battle league and now based in San Diego Read more>>

Hatem Abou-Sayed | Aesthetic plastic surgeon

I have always been interested in left brain right brain activities. Plastic surgery combines the analytical and academic side of the brain in assessing situations and developing algorithmic treatment plans, while it satisfies the right brain interest in design and creativity. I also enjoy using my hands and having immediate impact on people. I am also a musician and I believe musicianship improves my focus and dexterity for surgery while also providing an outlet for relaxation and further creative pursuit. Read more>>