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Artist
Artists create art to convey their personal thoughts or emotions through sculptures, paintings, sketches and various other mediums. Artists use a variety of tools to complete their work including plaster, pencils, brushes, and computer programs. Artwork can depict landscapes, people, and tangible objects.
Artists are grouped into various categories. Art directors determine images, layout designs, and artistic direction for printed and electronic publications.
Multi-media artists and animators design images and determine artistic direction for movies, TV shows, cartoons, and video games. They often sketch images before utilizing a computer program to create their art.
Fine artists develop new artwork. They usually develop expertise in a few mediums, which could include drawing, sculpting, painting, etc. Fine artists frequently have teacher or curator jobs on the side.
Craft artists sculpt with tools or develop with their hands, artwork sold in art stores or displayed in museums. They utilize a variety of resources and the same methods as fine artists to complete their artwork.
Illustrators design images for printed and electronic publications. Many illustrators design visuals for calendars, postcards, and greeting cards. Most illustrators create images with computer programs. Scientific and medical illustrators use their artist talents and understanding of a specific science to complete projects.
Cartoonists sketch cartoons to advertise products, announce social events, and make satirical political statements. Cartoonists occasionally brainstorm ideas with other people.
Sketch artists complete their sketches with pastels, charcoal, and pencils. Their completed drawings are utilized by various individuals for an assortment of projects.
Sculptors create art with plaster, wood, glass, stone, and other malleable materials. Some sculptors use multiple compounds to complete a project.
Printmakers design visuals to be printed. They can use a variety of tools, especially computer software to design their artwork.
Painting restorers refurbish faded and blemished paintings.
Artists frequently design and develop their projects in art studios while some work at their personal residences. Many work in studios leased by numerous artists to highlight their work to others. Studios are well lit and ventilated, but artists can expose themselves to paint, glue, and other material vapors. It is not uncommon for artists to experience fatigue, back problems, or eyestrain.
Artists occasionally work long hours to reach deadlines. Those running their own businesses determine when they work. Artists spend numerous hours bolstering their reputations and marketing their work.
How do you prepare for this career?
Attending art classes is not a requirement to become an artist, but it can sharpen one’s artistic skills. Becoming successful without taking classes is very difficult.
Universities and colleges usually offer undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in fine arts. Private design and art colleges provide undergraduate art programs, including classes in computer visual design.
Most art directors begin their careers in entry-level positions at design firms. After acquiring some more knowledge and experience, many get promoted to be directors. Some art directors complete a college program in art administration.
Medical illustrators must earn a bachelor's degree in which both medical science and art classes are completed. However, it is very helpful to complete a master’s program in medical illustration. There are only 5 American colleges that provide this program.
Individuals intending to teach at elementary, middle, and high schools, are required to acquire a bachelor’s degree and teaching certificate.
Artists employed by firms usually begin their careers performing mundane tasks, but they can sell their artwork to their own clients. Popular artists are very creative and innovative.
Most artists organize portfolios (art samples), to demonstrate their artistic talents and acquaint potential buyers or employers with their work.
How much will I earn?
The annual incomes for artists vary significantly. In 2006, craft artists’ salaries in the 50th percentile made between $18,860-35,840, and art directors’ salaries in the same range made between $49,480-94,920. Craft artists in the bottom 10th percentile made $14,130 or less while those in the upper 10th percentile made $135,090 or more during 2008.
Salaries for artists running their own businesses significantly vary. It is not uncommon for these artists to make less money than is needed to make a living.
How many jobs are there?
During 2008, there were nearly 218,000 people making their living as artists. More than 60 percent of artists ran their own businesses.
What is the future outlook for this career?
Job growth for artists is expected to increase at a higher rate than growth in other industries until 2016, but a lot people will be competing to fill these positions since many talented individuals pursue art careers. However, it is not uncommon for artists to need supplemental income.
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