Why Artists Should Travel: My Story of Fear and Growth

If you’re an artist looking to expand your horizons, let me tell you… Traveling is such a flex that most people don’t take advantage of.

My name is Junior Gomez. I’m a full-time artist based in Charlotte, NC. Before I made the leap into art full time, I traveled domestically, exploring places in the U.S. I had always wanted to visit. But after leaving my corporate job in 2021 to pursue my art career (as if that wasn’t bold enough, lol), I craved even bigger adventures.

The thought of traveling alone—especially to countries where I didn’t speak the language or know a single soul—used to scare the life out of me. But once I realized the power I had to take control of my own life, I started leaning into the things that terrified me the most. I discovered that fear can be a sign you’re about to grow.

In 2022, I booked a solo three-week trip to Thailand. Scariest thing I ever did… and the most life-changing experience I’ve ever had. I went to seek inspiration for my art, but what I gained was so much bigger. I conquered a lifelong fear and unlocked a whole new world for myself and gained so much creative growth through traveling.

Egypt Adventure 2024

Since then, my passport has gotten a serious workout: Canada, Costa Rica, France, Belgium, Amsterdam, Egypt, and most recently, Japan. Every trip gave me energy, creativity, and new perspectives that fed directly into my work.

Let me break down a few fears that held me back—and how I’ve learned to let them go:

1. Money

The number one reason most people don’t travel.Here’s my advice: if you’re someone who handles your bills and responsibilities, you’ll continue to do that even if you book a flight. Traveling won’t make you broke—it’ll make you richer in life experiences, connections, and creativity. You never know what opportunity or person you’ll meet that could change your career forever.

2. Traveling Alone

I get it. Who wants to be alone? (Me sometimes! 😂) But traveling solo will teach you more about yourself in one trip than five years of staying in the same comfort zone. It’s a true catalyst for personal and creative growth.

3. “What if I don’t like where I go?”

Yeah, but… what if you love it so much you move there someday?I’m an optimist. Thinking about the negative won’t get you anywhere. Believe you can fly and the universe just might hand you wings.

Japan Adventure 2025

Whether you’re an artist or someone just craving change, traveling is a flex. The world is full of beauty, culture, and experiences waiting for you.

And who knows? Once you get good at it, you might even qualify for grants that help you travel for free to create art. (I’ve done it!)

So take the risk. Get out there. Explore. The world is bigger and brighter than you think. Hope this inspires you to bet on yourself and take that first trip.