We asked some of the city’s leading artists and creatives to tell us about how they decided to pursue an artistic or creative career. We’ve shared some highlights below.

Christiana Zachary | Commission Artist & High School Science Teacher

Although I’ve always harbored a deep appreciation for art, my academic background lies firmly rooted in the sciences. I obtained my undergraduate degree in Biology and Evolutionary Anthropology from the University of Oregon in 2019. The pandemic presented a wonderful time to return and get my master’s in education. I am still working in the sciences as a high school science teacher, however, life has a way of surprising us, and it was during my recent relocation that my art business budded. When my husband and I uprooted our lives from the beautiful mountain town of Jackson, Wyoming to be closer to family, we found ourselves relying heavily on the generosity of those around us throughout the move. One family was particularly gracious with us and in a gesture of gratitude, I painted portraits of cherished family pets for that supportive household. The heartfelt response to my artwork was overwhelming. From this humble beginning, word-of-mouth swiftly spread, and before long, I found myself with many commission requests. Read more>>

Olivia Chapman | Traditional Artist

From an early age, I felt a sense of magic attached to creating images on paper. Holding a pencil or brush gives me a sense of control and ability to express myself in a way that nothing else does. No matter what my full-time job is, I think I’ll always be creating art. Read more>>

Rob Seel | Architect, Artist, Musician, Coffee Roaster

I really had no choice. It chose me! Read more>>

Charlene Jackson | Owner of Charlene’s Massage Spa and Wellness

I pursue the career of massage therapy to help others understand the importance of taking care of your body on the outside as well as the inside. Through massage therapy you can lower blood pressure, helps you sleep better, help with muscle spasms and cramps, help with range of motion, help with stiffness and much more as we age. As we age we experience a lot of different changes through life dealing with aches and pains within the muscles and this makes life a little easier for the body. Read more>>

Sarah Dubose | Farmer

It found me!! I was in healthcare for 17 years and decided I needed an outlet for the things I witnessed. I decided to volunteer on my days off at a local urban farm (reedy River farms). There I met my future husband. We started a new farm at our home and started dabbling in flowers. We never looked back!! It is my salve. It has plucked me from healthcare and landed me in a field. Read more>>

Jeannie Joyner | Charleston Artist

Passion sometimes is defined as feverish, but it was different for me. The fire was rheumatic and evidenced itself when I was five. Treatment then consisted of being relegated to our home all day, every day. You were encouraged to be still and quiet, which of course was not welcomed by a curious child. My mother decided to occupy my mind and hands by working with me on elementary art projects such as coloring, finger painting, drawing, and brush painting. She taught me the color wheel, how to shade, perspective, and other techniques that wouldn’t be available in a regular classroom until later years. Mom also taught me some sewing techniques that I was able to blend into my home ec classes in high school. I designed or redesigned patterns for my own clothes for high school and college. The foundation was laid in love and necessity for what others called my art later on. Family members asked for and received items I created. Friends gushed over my drawings and other physical pieces which prompted them to seek me out for special designs of their choice. Read more>>