This week on the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m sitting down with Artist Academy member Michael Quiroz for another Quit Your Day Job episode. In this series, I talk with artists who are navigating the transition from traditional jobs to full-time careers as artists. Michael shares how an unexpected layoff became the push he needed to finally pursue a career as a muralist after years of working in engineering.

We talk about getting started without an established portfolio, finding clients through Thumbtack, and taking on different painting projects to build experience and generate income. Michael also shares how connecting with other artists through mural meetups led to collaborations, new opportunities, and valuable relationships.

If you've been thinking about leaving your traditional job to pursue art full-time, Michael's story offers an honest look at the process and what it takes to start building a business around your creativity.