How to Become an Artist

Becoming an Artist in Todays Digital WorldThere are a broad range of possibilities in the art field. From a fine artist selling unique paintings, to a college professor teaching art classes, to a graphic design artist creating work for a specific company, the  artistic field is full of a variety of career paths. When looking into the art field, potential salary, necessary education, and personal interest, are all important factors in choosing the right path.

Typically when someone hopes to become an artist, they picture a glamorous world of fine art–gallery shows, creatively expressing oneself without restraint, and earning income through artwork sales. However, ignoring the serious challenges in this field and failing to plan ahead typically results in a frustrating lack of career options.

Considering What it Takes

Artists have to work hard to get noticed and stand out among their peers. The majority of fine artists are supported mainly by commissioned work or a specific career in the art world. Many fine artists become teachers, or find a niche where they are hired by clients who are looking for a certain style and subject of art. Some fine artists attend school and major in both fine art and graphic design so they are able to have a larger range of job options after graduation.

$43,470
High School or GED
None
Long-term
56,900
5%
3,100
Find Related CareersSOURCE: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
Many novices believe they can teach themselves, but this mistake results in falling behind and producing amateur work. Four years in a strong art program teaches the discipline, technique and critical eye needed in a successful art career. Developmental assignments, critiques with peers and professors, and portfolio building, are just a few of the important things art school provides. Postsecondary schooling also produces personal contacts and opens a window into the art world. A bachelor’s degree is a common requirement for graphic design artists. Fine art majors often continue on to masters programs to have a better footing in the fine art arena as well as the ability to teach college art classes themselves.

The Current Job Field

According the the US Department of Labor’s Bereau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 191,440 graphic design artists were employed in 2012 while 12,480 fine artists and 92,570 college art professors were employed (estimates do not include self-employed). The average national salary for these occupations are as follows:

  • Fine Artist (creates original artwork, including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators) $54,000
  • Art Professor (teaches art, drama, and music, postsecondary) $73,340
  • Graphic Designer (designs for commercial or promotional needs) $48,730

Job Outlook

Considering the projected growth of jobs in the art field may help determine the specific field you want to pursue, as well as the path you will choose to take to get there. The BLS reports that the 2010-2020 job outlook for fine artists will see a 5 percent growth (slower than average) and noted, “Employment growth of artists depends, in large part, on the overall state of the economy, because purchases of art are usually optional. Craft and fine artists may find it difficult to make a living solely by selling their artwork.” Growth in the graphic design field is expected to increase by 13 percent and the BLS adds, “High job turnover should result in numerous openings. However, competition for senior graphic designer positions will be very strong.”

Paths Proven Successful

Find out exactly what it takes to get where you want to go–interview those who have been successful at doing whatever it is you want to do. Ask artists you admire what they did to get where they are and be sure to ask more than just one source for advice.

Knowing a bit about what to expect, and what it takes to get there, will help determine the career and path that is right for you.

Sources: http://www.bls.gov, http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/31/arts/study-says-artists-have-higher-salaries.html?_r=0

Recent Articles

View all articles

How to Become a Flea Market ArtistAre your hands always busy? Can you create something out of nothing? Flea Market Artists keep ...
How to Become a Music DirectorIf you have natural music ability and a flair for directing, you may want to combine your talents ...
How to Become a 3D Animator3D animation is a highly technical skill that requires both artistic talent and computer knowledge. ...
How to Become a Music PromoterJOB OVERVIEW Being a music promoter can be a fun and rewarding career. Like a music agent, a music ...
How to become a Set & Exhibit Designer
Cut Just Right – Careers in Film and Video Editing
How to Become a Web Designer
How to become a Sculptor
How to Become a Craft Artist