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After the launch of his book, Andy is exploring what it takes to be an independent culinary writer and video producer, and--of course--cook, who's already made himself an influential figure in his industry. "My philosophy when it comes to creating media is that it needs to contain stories, perspectives and passion, so that there is meaning to it."

The website is curated as an experience

Andy traces the roots of his love of food to his early years of. "My parents moved from Iran to California from Iran during the latter half of the 1970s, and with them, they brought with them the culinary traditions of their country," he says. "I believe that the food traditions and the flavor, methods that my extended family was always present, is what instilled my initial deep love for food and cooking." He decided to pursue cooking and food writing as a career because this love "expanded into a profound always-growing curiosity in all things food."

"This website is geared towards those who know and are not familiar with my work" Andy says. "I want to make sure the people are aware of my work, and be able to engage with both any new and existing content which the website will create." One of the new content Andy wants to create includes the Things I Love page. Here, he has the opportunity to present his favorite food and lifestyle brands while expanding the boundaries of his well-known brand a little further. "While my writing and recipes are a major an aspect of my life since a long time," Andy says, "I will soon be working the opportunity to explore new possibilities that will be showcased on the site."

Leçons from the beginning year as an artist who is independent

The past few years, in addition to working on and publishing his first book Andy has also been exploring the ins-and-outs of working independently. This includes continuing to develop his brand and building an environment that supports his work as a writer.

"I consider that the integrity of how I want to cook and write about food has remains the same" Andy says, referring to the way he conducts his business now, as compared to the way he did things before he became independent. "I think my aesthetic--while it is something that has always been clear for me at the personal level -- is now open and an integral aspect of what I do. I have more creative control now."

Andy's other advice for aspiring creators? The artist suggests being careful about which projects you want to work on, whenever possible. "Take to projects and collaborate with people that will inspire you as well as learn something about," Andy says. "But also know that not every project might be able to meet this criteria, which is fine! It's important to continue moving forward."

Inspired by Andy's tale? Start building your own image with Andy .