4 answers
Alina
Student
Jersey City, New Jersey
3
Questions
Asked
374 views
What keeps you motivated for the next project?
What was the determining factor that directed you toward a life pursuing the arts? And how do you continue to do so between projects?
4 answers
Christian Wolf
Producer, director, manager
9
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Christian’s Answer
Hi Alina -
Honestly... I wish I knew why I was so determined to be in the arts. Ever since I can remember I entertained or created shows. Starting out lip syncing and dancing for my parents, becoming a magician at 12 and now a full time producer/presenter. Honestly, I think it was a desire I was born with. It's never been about being famous or rich or getting more social media likes. It has always been a passion.
I've had the opportunity to speak with a number of successful artists/performers and they have echoed the same. The arts has been a passion they have always had.
Sometimes the greatest threat to someone pursuing their passion in the arts is self sabotage. The inner voices telling yourself that you don't have the talent or the dream/goal is too big. "You'll never be able to do that because..." No matter what the voices are saying... keep going.
I have to agree with a lot of what Michelle said in her response.
Wishing you all the best.
Honestly... I wish I knew why I was so determined to be in the arts. Ever since I can remember I entertained or created shows. Starting out lip syncing and dancing for my parents, becoming a magician at 12 and now a full time producer/presenter. Honestly, I think it was a desire I was born with. It's never been about being famous or rich or getting more social media likes. It has always been a passion.
I've had the opportunity to speak with a number of successful artists/performers and they have echoed the same. The arts has been a passion they have always had.
Sometimes the greatest threat to someone pursuing their passion in the arts is self sabotage. The inner voices telling yourself that you don't have the talent or the dream/goal is too big. "You'll never be able to do that because..." No matter what the voices are saying... keep going.
I have to agree with a lot of what Michelle said in her response.
Wishing you all the best.
Hello Mr. Wolf,
I greatly relate to your interest in all things creative growing up. As I’ve gotten older and began studying more intensively, those voices you mention have definitely become more prominent. They can be constructive sometimes, but mostly they end up negatively impacting my performance! It has been a journey learning when to listen to them and when to decide not to! Thank you, again!
Best-
Alina
Alina
Here’s a little video I always go to when the negative voices won’t be quiet.
https://youtu.be/GHrmKL2XKcE?si=gcKU_wHUFZKqi2FA
Christian Wolf
Hello, Very inspiring! I’m going to have to start listening more to Glass’s content. I’m learning to accept that it’s okay to have work that doesn’t quite meet my ambitions, but is constantly growing toward them. One foot in front of the other!
Alina
Chris Courtney Martin
Writer
2
Answers
Fayetteville, North Carolina
Updated
Chris Courtney’s Answer
Every time I embark on a new project, it's crucial for me to infuse it with personal relevance. This applies even to commissioned pieces. When presented with a concept, my initial step is to identify a component that resonates with me profoundly. This ensures the creative process is rewarding. Don't hesitate to infuse your work with your personal touch - it's a surefire way to connect with others. Embrace vulnerability and make the first move to establish a connection with your audience. This approach never fails to create an impact. I hope you find this advice beneficial!
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1179
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Alina !
What a superb question, one that will give me a chance to recall my experience from when I was a very young age. I hope that I can be of some inspiration to you with my thoughts and advice.
There was definitely a clear determining factor that directed me toward a career in acting. I was influenced at the age of five or six years old because I had an aunt who would take me along with her to the movies. The cinema houses were grand, the movies were grand and I was taking it all in. The elements that drew me in were that actors are story tellers who are telling a story by being someone else. This intrigued me as a child and I knew that I wanted to do it when I grew older. I carried around this intention all through childhood, but did not have the environment where I was exposed to actors, acting or that it even was a thing that people could do. I had no idea about how some people even manage to be up on that screen. I did know that it was how I wanted to make my living and always felt that I would one day have the exposure, support and training to make it a reality. It became a reality when I was 18, a theatre major in college and finally moved to Los Angeles after college graduation.
The period of time between projects is not so much a drive anymore, rather it is a realization that I would be able to jump into a project if I was cast in something. Once you are an artist, whether a performing artist or one who works in various physical materials, you never stop being the artist you are. You may put it off at some time, you may have gaps or one large gap in work, you may actively continue it all your life, but regardless, it is a huge part of your identity and no one can take that away from a person. It's something that you feel or sense more than a drive. If you truly love your art, you are always automatically driven toward it, whether you are a writer, singer, actor or a painter.
My only piece of advice is go with your instincts and never give up pursuing art or anything that you have a passion for!
What a superb question, one that will give me a chance to recall my experience from when I was a very young age. I hope that I can be of some inspiration to you with my thoughts and advice.
There was definitely a clear determining factor that directed me toward a career in acting. I was influenced at the age of five or six years old because I had an aunt who would take me along with her to the movies. The cinema houses were grand, the movies were grand and I was taking it all in. The elements that drew me in were that actors are story tellers who are telling a story by being someone else. This intrigued me as a child and I knew that I wanted to do it when I grew older. I carried around this intention all through childhood, but did not have the environment where I was exposed to actors, acting or that it even was a thing that people could do. I had no idea about how some people even manage to be up on that screen. I did know that it was how I wanted to make my living and always felt that I would one day have the exposure, support and training to make it a reality. It became a reality when I was 18, a theatre major in college and finally moved to Los Angeles after college graduation.
The period of time between projects is not so much a drive anymore, rather it is a realization that I would be able to jump into a project if I was cast in something. Once you are an artist, whether a performing artist or one who works in various physical materials, you never stop being the artist you are. You may put it off at some time, you may have gaps or one large gap in work, you may actively continue it all your life, but regardless, it is a huge part of your identity and no one can take that away from a person. It's something that you feel or sense more than a drive. If you truly love your art, you are always automatically driven toward it, whether you are a writer, singer, actor or a painter.
My only piece of advice is go with your instincts and never give up pursuing art or anything that you have a passion for!
Hello Ms. Marotta,
Thank you for the advice! I’m constantly reminding myself that being an artist in any capacity is not solely comprised of achievements or awards. Any opportunity to work on my craft is a chance to explore a new angle of myself and my abilities. I’m glad to hear you made that big move to LA! Very inspiring!
Best-
Alina
Alina
Hannah O’Neal
Model
1
Answer
Pensacola, Florida
Updated
Hannah’s Answer
Dear Alina,
Thank you for your thoughtful question. I've always had a deep passion for creative expression, even from a young age. As I got older, I realized I wanted to pursue modeling as a full-time career so I could keep nurturing my creative spirit.
The tipping point came when I was offered my first professional modeling gig. I remember feeling so energized and inspired during the shoot. It just confirmed for me that this was what I was meant to do. I loved being able to collaborate with photographers and designers to bring their artistic visions to life.
Now, in between modeling jobs, I make sure to stay inspired and sharpen my skills. I immerse myself in art by digital design, watching films, and reading fashion magazines. I also work on my posing, catwalk walk, and facial expressions by taking classes and practicing at home.
Most importantly, I try to approach each day with gratitude. I feel so fortunate to have found my passion in life and get to pursue it as a career. My hope is to inspire others to follow their creative dreams too. Let me know if you have any other questions!
xoxo,
Honey
Thank you for your thoughtful question. I've always had a deep passion for creative expression, even from a young age. As I got older, I realized I wanted to pursue modeling as a full-time career so I could keep nurturing my creative spirit.
The tipping point came when I was offered my first professional modeling gig. I remember feeling so energized and inspired during the shoot. It just confirmed for me that this was what I was meant to do. I loved being able to collaborate with photographers and designers to bring their artistic visions to life.
Now, in between modeling jobs, I make sure to stay inspired and sharpen my skills. I immerse myself in art by digital design, watching films, and reading fashion magazines. I also work on my posing, catwalk walk, and facial expressions by taking classes and practicing at home.
Most importantly, I try to approach each day with gratitude. I feel so fortunate to have found my passion in life and get to pursue it as a career. My hope is to inspire others to follow their creative dreams too. Let me know if you have any other questions!
xoxo,
Honey
Hi Hannah,
Thanks so much for sharing your story!! It’s really reassuring to know that I don’t need to be “on” at all times to be considered an actress/singer. Honing my skills is also “part of the job.” Thanks!
P.S. I’d love a catwalk lesson sometime !!
Best-
Alina
Alina
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