Today we’d like to introduce you to Cortlyn Perkins
Hi cortlyn, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey starts in a challenging childhood where creativity was both an escape and a passion. From an early age, I was always looking for ways to express myself. In elementary school, I turned that ambition into a mini business selling duct tape wallets to classmates—my first taste of entrepreneurship. By middle school, I had my hands in all sorts of artistic projects, dabbling in different mediums and pushing the boundaries of what I could create.
But it was during the COVID pandemic when my creativity truly flourished. Quarantine gave me the space to dive deep into fashion and media, experimenting with new ideas and growing more confident in my style. When I got to college, I was introduced to creative directing, which sparked a whole new chapter for me. From there, I began to build a portfolio that reflected my vision and unique aesthetic, shaping my path toward where I am today.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Like most creative journeys, mine has been full of twists and turns. One of the biggest struggles has been staying motivated and consistent, especially when the results weren’t immediate. There’s this constant pressure to always be on top of your game, to always be creating something new, and that can be exhausting.
Balancing school, work, and personal projects often felt overwhelming, and there were moments when I doubted whether I could handle it all. I had to learn to push through periods of self-doubt and burnout, even when my creative spark wasn’t as bright. Staying consistent with my vision, despite the obstacles, has been one of the hardest but most important lessons. It’s easy to get discouraged, but real growth comes when you keep going even when the path gets tough.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a creative director with a background in photoshoots, fashion shows, and short films, but my work doesn’t stop there. I also model and occasionally draw, adding a more personal artistic touch to my projects. Whether it’s directing a shoot or sketching a new design, I thrive in environments where I can shape a vision from the ground up.
I’m also deeply involved in content creation—producing videos on TikTok and Instagram reels that connect with my audience through fashion, lifestyle, and creativity. I enjoy influencing through these platforms, where I can engage in real conversations and inspire others to embrace their creative sides.
What sets me apart is my versatility. I can seamlessly move between roles—one day directing a large-scale project, and the next, crafting intimate, personal artwork. I’m most proud of the diverse creative spaces I’ve been able to work in and the stories I’ve been able to tell through my art. The blend of directing, modeling, and content creation allows me to bring a unique and multidimensional approach to everything I do.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
What I love most about Houston is the incredible versatility and opportunity it offers for creatives. The city is full of diverse cultures and artistic scenes that welcome new ideas and fresh talent. Whether you’re a visual artist, a fashion designer, or someone working behind the camera, there’s a space for you here to grow and connect with like-minded people. Houston has really embraced the rise of independent creators, making it an inspiring place to pursue my passions.
If I had to point out a downside, it would be the sprawl of the city—it can be challenging to get from one part of town to another quickly, especially with the traffic. It’s also easy to get lost in the hustle, and the fast pace can sometimes feel overwhelming. But despite those small challenges, Houston’s creative energy always makes it worth it!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itscoorrtt/profilecard/?igsh=M3B5N2d6b3RtM2ls
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@vibinwitcort?si=3F3GKOKZeTyF24Yi
