art career research project

How to Plan an Art Career Research Unit

Teaching your students about art careers is exciting. From discussions to hands-on exploration, there are many ways to accomplish the goal.

One effective way to expose students to art careers is through research. The ability to research is an important life skill and something they can hone in the art room. Letting your students research different art careers will give them a broad sense of the possibilities.

Here are 5 Steps to Plan Your Own Art Career Research Unit

This unit takes students from researching to creating to presenting. It’s an exciting way for them to get to know about many different art careers in a short period of time.

1. Introduce Art Careers

Begin this unit by introducing a variety of art careers to your students. Be sure to include popular, well-known options alongside more obscure choices.

Here is a list of art careers you could share.

Or, check out a complete list of sixty choices here !

• Illustrator
• App Designer
• Photographer
• Tattoo Artist
• Special Effects Makeup Artist
• Art Therapist
• Art Director
• Video Game Designer
• Art Historian
• Costume Designer
• Digital Illustrator

You can introduce these using a slide presentation, class discussion, handout, or another method.

2. Begin Research

After your introduction, it is time for students to begin to dive deep and start their own research. Students can look into art careers you shared or search for their own. Give your students books and access to technology to help them gather more information. If you haven’t already, this is the time to talk about plagiarism and the importance of citing sources.

At this time, think about whether you will let students work in pairs or groups. This unit can easily accommodate collaborative learning.

A handout is an effective way to help guide students through the research phase. This is especially important for students who are new to research.

You can develop your own or use the one below !

Download Now

3. Plan Projects

Next, students must decide how they are going to present what they learned to the class. Creating a thorough plan will help them have a solid foundation for their project.

Allowing choice is important. Doing so will create more buy-in. Two options for projects include creating a slide presentation or creating an original piece of art, like a drawing or a sculpture. Whatever options you decide to include, make sure you spell out the exact requirements for each. Here are a few examples.

Slide Presentation Requirements

• Share why this career interests you.
• Include 5-6 images of work that comes from your chosen career. Make sure to include a link to the original source for each.
• Share 4-5 facts about one famous/notable person in the field.
• Share one new thing you learned about this career.

Original Art Requirements

• Create an original piece of work that exemplifies the art career you researched.
• Share why this career interests you.
• Share three facts about the career.
• Share one famous/notable person in the field.

4. Create Work

At this point, your students have done their research and made a plan. Now, give them the resources they need in order to create their presentations and make original art. During this time, make sure you are circulating the classroom to help facilitate learning.

After their work is complete, students are ready to share. This is where all the hard work comes together. As their classmates present, students are able to learn about a variety of art careers.

Creating a Dynamic Hallway Display

It’s always a good idea to share what happens in your classroom. However, figuring out how to display a presentation can be difficult. One way to overcome this is by using QR codes. Take a photo of each student or group of students as they present.

For students who created original art, hang the photo next to the finished piece. For students who created slide presentations, hang the photo next to a QR code that links to the presentation. This way, your viewers will be able to see all the work created in your class!

Overall, this unit is a great way to give your students research experience, to explore technology, and to learn more about art careers.

How do you expose your students to art careers?

What type of research opportunities do you give your students?

Magazine articles and podcasts are opinions of professional education contributors and do not necessarily represent the position of the Art of Education University (AOEU) or its academic offerings. Contributors use terms in the way they are most often talked about in the scope of their educational experiences.

Wynita Harmon

Wynita Harmon is AOEU’s Chair of Faculty Development and a former AOEU Writer and elementary school art educator.

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We're here to help you with the inspiration, creative thinking, and financial assistance to excel in the arts.

The Art Career Project is a creative community for makers, creators, and emerging artists. It's our mission to help people around the world learn the skills they need to achieve their personal and professional goals, find the financial aid they need to support their education, secure the capital they need to fund a project or business, and explore artistic careers that check all the boxes for growth, passion, and sustainability..

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ART Career Research Project

What educators are saying

Description.

There numerous careers stemming from an education in the arts. Through this research project, students will dive into an artistic career and outline the path required to equip themselves with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue this chosen field. Students will create a presentation to share their research as part of this project.

This resource is an eleven page .PDF document. Included are pages of guided research with online research links, presentation story boards and evaluation rubric. Completed student presentation examples are also included.

This is an extended project, with the potential to span 3-4 weeks. I personally use this as a midterm project, presenting each resource to my students over one week while guiding their research. I then provide 20 minutes of in class time to work on the presentations over the next two weeks. I give students the option to present their research in person or with a pre-recorded video. I have successfully used this resource with both middle and high school students.

Purchase grants a single teacher license to use in their own classroom. An additional licenses must be purchased in order to share this product. Thank you for your purchase and please remember to leave feedback on this product as it helps both of us. You will earn TPT Store Credit to spend on more resources while I receive your valuable insight.

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35 Fantastic Resources for Careers in Art

Joseph Flanagan

Are you the type of person that feels more at home behind an easel than behind a desk? Do you prefer the weight and control of a paintbrush to pen and paper? Do you enjoy playing around with creations on Photoshop more than working in Excel or Microsoft Word?

If so, then you might be the type of person who is perfect for careers in art. Of course, this isn’t an easy career to just jump into; it demands training, patience, determination and creativity.

The good news?

There are plenty of online resources out there for you to use to further your development!

We’ve collected a list of the best resources to help get your art career on track in this column. Good luck!

Table of Contents

General art career resources, art education career resources, job search resources.

You have to start somewhere before you can create your masterpiece of a career! Here are some great places where you can get things kicked off.

A Day in the Life of an Art Dealer

The Princeton Review has a superb “A Day in the Life…” resource that tackles various jobs in the art field. Here’s one for an art dealer.

A Day in the Life of a Graphic Designer

For those who are interested in a graphic design career, here’s another good “Day in the Life…” look from the Princeton Review.

A Day in the Life of a Digital Artist

Same as the two above … except this time, you can experience what a day in the life of a digital artist might feel like!

National Endowment for the Arts Grants

If you are producing work worthy of support from the government, you can apply for grant funds here. Obviously, these funds are tricky to get (and may be influenced by the current political climate) but it is always worth a shot.

CERF Plus - The Artist's Safety Net

A wonderful every-morning resource for any aspiring artist. The website contains plenty of first-hand stories and testimonials about the life of an artist, and also serves as a “safety net” for those artists in times of trouble.

How to Build a Career as an Artist

From the Huffington Post, this article from Svetlana Dostenko gives an excellent inside look at the right and wrong way to develop a career in the arts. It covers all the bases; check in with this website before you start anything.

The Art Career Project

The Art Career Project is a fine site with plenty of different resources, including job listings, step-by-step instructions on building a career, a blog, and a listing of online schools. This should be one of your bookmarks.

How to Build a Career as an Artist, from Penelope Trunk

This artist gives an warts-and-all look at what it really takes to have a career as an artist. Recommended - but tough - reading. Very worthy of your time.

Art Career Payscale

This helpful article - from the aptly named “Payscale” website - gives a good look into the financial aspects of trying to build a career as an artist.

The Undercover Artist - Carving out a Creative Career Path

From a website called “The Muse,” this article contains plenty of information from “The Undercover Artist” on developing a creative career. Very helpful.

Choosing Art as a Career

Here’s another great warts-and-all, unfiltered look at what it takes to have an art career. This one goes over different career options, the financial options, and different qualifications.

12 Artists Tips for a Successful Career

This fine, comprehensive list collects some fantastic quotes from renowned artist about making a career in the field. Worthy of inspiration - print some out and tack them up to the wall.

A Student Art Guide to Art Careers

Want to pick through a very long list of potential art careers? Go ahead and start here! This Student Art Guide to Art Careers has over 150 different career options for those who want to go into the industry.

Five Tips for Making a Successful Art Career

From Work it Daily, here are five excellent tips for carving out an excellent art career - it covers social media, multitasking, a calendar of events, building a portfolio and others.

How to Jump Start Your Art Career

Looking to give your art career a real kick in the paintbrushes? This site - from Fine Art Tips - is a very valuable resource for those who need a little bit of a boost.

Making a Living as a Mid-Career Artist

Those that are looking to jump into the art field as a mid-career job change would do well to check out this helpful website.

Art Therapy - Basics and Careers

Art therapy is a fast-growing (and very noble) career. This helpful website contains information on the basics of the profession, as well as a look into what it would take to make a career of it.

A Career as an Arts Administrator

Here’s another career that’s growing rapidly, and another good summary of what it will take to make it in the field.

Becoming a Fine Artist

Here’s a very detailed, in-depth look at some of the fine points about having a career as a fine artist, with information on salary and career outlook.

Building a Sustainable Art Career

You don’t want an art career to be fleeting - you want it to last and help provide for your financial and emotional needs. This site (from “New York City art experts”) has a good look at what’s necessary to build a sustainable art career.

Art Gallery Internships

Internships are a fantastic way to get a foot in the door, and if you’re looking to work at an art gallery, here’s the first place you should go to for that first step.

Visual Resources Association

According to their website, the Visual Resources Association is “dedicated to furthering research and education in the field of image and media management within the educational, cultural heritage, and commercial environments.” Their employment digest is linked here.

Chicago Artists Resource

Looking for a job within Chicago, or the American Midwest? This Chicago Artists Resource is a great compendium of all of the jobs that may be available in the area.

Of course, it’s easier to start a career in arts if you have the proper education. Here’s a good collection of some of the best art education links that are out there on the web.

Vocational Information Center

This is a comprehensive, detailed listing of all of the art schools that are out there, broken down by intended profession.

Best Colleges for Art in America, Ranked by Niche

The Niche rankings collect and grade art schools throughout the United States; according to the website, their “ranking is based on key statistics and student reviews using data from the U.S. Department of Education.”

Top Universities Top Art and Design Schools, 2017

The Top Universities website has a great ranking of the best Art and Design schools not only in the United States, but across the globe. The Royal College of Art, in the United Kingdom, comes out on top in their rankings.

College Art Careers

If you’re seeking out a job in the arts in higher education, take a gander through the listings on the College Art Association’s website. You can search by keyword and location, and also set up new job alerts.

Art Educators - Careers in Art and Design

Interested in a career in the arts, or as a career as an art teacher? This handy, helpful career resources guide from ArtEducators.org is a fabulous place to start.

American Alliance of Museums

If you’re looking to try to get into a career working in the arts for museums, the American Alliance of Museums is one of the best possible places to start. Their website has an excellent listing of jobs.

The Basics to Becoming an Art Instructor

This SchoolsintheUSA brief gives a good overview of what an art instructor does and how you can start with this type of career.

There are hundreds of art career jobs out there every day.

Finding the right one can certainly be a hassle! However, here we’ve put together a fine list of the creative job sites that are out there on the web for you to look through.

Art Career Cafe

The “Art Career Cafe” doesn’t really serve any croissants or muffins - just a load of new art-industry jobs on a regular basis, calling itself “a creative worksource for the arts job seeker.” They also have a helpful job for anyone who may be interested in learning more about the industry.

Americans for the Arts - Job Bank

The advocacy group at Americans for the Arts is doing fantastic work around the country, and they have a robust job board on their website where you may be able to find a job or two.

American Institute for Graphic Arts - Design Jobs

Interested in something in the graphic arts field? The American Institute for Graphic arts has a fine website with a nice directory of all the jobs available, ready to pick through.

Ceramic and Glass Industry Foundation

For those that might want to work with ceramic and glass, the Ceramic and Glass Industry Foundation will help you break in (no pun intended). The listings are paid for, so there shouldn’t be too much waste there.

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The Art Career Project

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The Art Career Project is a creative community for makers, creators, and emerging artists. It’s their mission to help people around the world learn the skills they need to achieve their personal and professional goals, find the financial aid they need to support their education, secure the capital they need to fund a project or business, and explore artistic careers that check all the boxes for growth, passion, and sustainability.

Choosing a Career

• Jul 17, 2024
• 10 min read

The 30 Best Art Careers to Consider (and What They Pay)

Love art? Make it your career.

Joanna Zambas

Content Manager and Career Expert

Reviewed by Melina Theodorou

When you think of a job in the field of arts, a high wage doesn’t usually come to mind; you think of a struggling artist or a busker full of fire in their belly trying to make ends meet. Yet, surprisingly, there are plenty of  artistic jobs  that offer a high salary and great job satisfaction — sounds like a dream come true, right?

If you have a creative degree and don’t know what route to take, these top jobs will help you narrow your search.

1. Makeup artist

Average salary:  $35,080/year

Yes, ladies and gentlemen, being able to  do makeup  well is an art in itself. If you dreamed of sculpting faces with makeup and turning your clients into the best version of themselves, this is definitely the job for you.

In order to  succeed as a freelancer , you’ll need to gain some work experience in a store for a big makeup brand to learn top tricks of the trade.

2. Musician

Average salary:  $39.14/hour

Did you think your dream of making it in the music industry was coming to an end? If you did, think again! You don’t have to be performing at Madison Square Garden to call yourself a  musician .

You can work behind the scenes and climb your way up the ladder at a production company, or you can opt to be a music teacher and form your own band that plays at parties and weddings.

3. Art lecturer

Average salary:  $100,840/year

If you have the passion and experience in the art industry, being a lecturer sounds like a logical calling.

As a  professor at a college or university , you’ll be in charge of delivering the course’s curriculum and assessing the students on the knowledge that they have learned. Art lecturers must complete a minimum of a master’s degree within the visual arts or art history, combined with work experience.

4. Art dealer

Average salary:  $71,420/year

Art dealers are industry experts that buy and sell artwork. They work closely with  artists , critics, museum owners, collectors and purchasers. This job involves staying up to date with current trends and informed on new products, all while traveling and making hard sales.

5. Talent agent

Average salary:  $132,810/year

This exciting job involves tracking down aspiring actors and models that you think have the talent to pursue a long-lasting career. If your judgement is right, you could become a household name in the industry and make a good living for yourself, too.

6. Fine artist

This is perhaps the most obvious of careers in art but one that requires an incredible amount of self-belief and dedication.

If you aspire to be an artist, you could begin by being an assistant in an art studio and complete your projects while working in another part-time job until you have developed a solid business.

7. Printmaker

Average salary:  $52,910/year

Printmakers create art using printing press, usually on paper. Techniques used include etching, block-printing, woodcuts, silk-screening and lithography, with electronic and digital processes increasingly being used.

If this is the career route you would like to take, networking may be the path to getting your name heard.

8. Photographer

Average salary:  $40,760/year

If you find yourself taking snaps of all things around you and making them look really captivating, consider choosing a career in  photography . You’ll need to have good communication skills and be inventive to come up with new angles and ideas.Bottom of Form

9. Gallery manager

Average salary:  $57,120/year

Working in art galleries, gallery managers are responsible for overseeing the installation and removal of exhibits as well as the spaces themselves, ensuring that the lighting and air conditioning function as they should.

In some cases, gallery managers may also be responsible for handling the marketing side of things too, responding to online messages and enquiries, and promoting upcoming events.

10. Art teacher

Average salary:  $63,670/year

If you have the passion to share your knowledge and skills with others, why not become an art teacher?

You can have the comfort of a job with set hours and holiday, and be inspired by the passion that your students share for the subject. You’ll be responsible for training your students for exams and will feel a huge sense of satisfaction when they have passed.

11. Animator

Average salary:  $99,060/year

An  animator  is a special kind of artist that produces multiple images called frames which, when put together, create an illusion of movement. Take Disney movies, for example, which are created through animation.

To become a successful animator, you need to have artistic talent and strong technical skills as well as a good eye for detail.

12. 3D artist

A 3D artist isn’t like your regular one that puts paintbrush to paper and creates a fascinating masterpiece.

This type of artist uses specialized design and drawing software to create computer images of people, buildings and objects to make sure they can be viewed from all sides as a separate element.

13. Ceramicist

A ceramicist, or ceramic artist, is someone who uses clay to make crafts, either by hand or with a potter’s wheel. The objects they make can vary from cups, plates and vases to ornaments, plaques and planters.

Once the clay is dry after it has been shaped, it is fired in a kiln and then glazed and refired to give it the desired color or pattern.

14. Illustrator

Illustrators use their creative skills to demonstrate stories through images for an intended audience. This could be through the front cover of a book or a series of caricatures, photographs or digital illustrations.

In order to succeed in this field, you should have already completed a degree in fine arts.

15. Interior designer

Average salary:  $62,570/year

Interior designers  are professionals who combine function, safety, style and beauty to create esthetically pleasing interior spaces. They usually discuss the client’s wants and needs, and design the project around their budget.

Designers must also be technically advanced, as they will use computer-based programs to create their  vision boards .

16. Architect

Average salary:  $62,510/year

Architects  are responsible for designing buildings and structures. If you find yourself admiring the unique architecture of buildings and doodling sketches of random designs, this job will be perfect for you.

17. Graphic designer

Average salary:  $58,910/year

Are you passionate about creating an image on your computer that can speak a thousand words? If so,  graphic design  allows you to combine art and technology. You may be hired to design images for a website, publication, film, store or restaurant.

18. Film director

Average salary : $82,510

If you have the vision and ability to use technology to capture talked-about images that make it past the cutting room floor and into the theater, then this job is best-suited for you. Gaining industry knowledge can be difficult, but if you have the skills, you’ll earn mega bucks being a film director.

19. Art director

Average salary:  $106,500/year

Have you ever dreamed of being the big boss and overseeing design and direct layouts?

By  being an art director , you will manage the planning, design and production, whether it’s on a modeling set, commercial, poster or magazine. You’ll be the contact for clients and delegate the stylistic needs to team members who will present designs for approval.

20. Fashion designer

Average salary:  $79,290/year

Fashion designers  have the responsibility of creating wonderful patterns for a variety of clothing, shoes and accessories. This can range from products for high-street fashion or haute couture.

The designer initially drafts the design but can also be involved in selecting the fabric and cutting and crafting the items.

21. Art therapist

Average salary:  $75,660/year

If you love art and helping others, you’ll be able to combine your two passions as an art therapist. At its core, this profession involves working with people who have physical or mental health problems, as well as clients seeking emotional, spiritual and creative growth, using a variety of artistic processes (like painting and drawing).

To practice this highly  rewarding job , though, you’ll need to complete comprehensive training that includes a bachelor’s degree in art education or psychology, and a clinical internship.

22. Jeweler

Average salary:  $47,450/year

If you prefer a more practical career and love jewelry, then becoming a jeweler might be right up your alley. As a jeweler, you will design and make jewelry (like bracelets, earrings, necklaces and rings) using a variety of metals, gems and other materials.

Jewelers are typically hired by jewelry and accessory brands, but many choose to  make a business  out of it.

23. Art curator

Art curators  are tasked with the management of art collections in institutions like museums and galleries, and often lead or assist in the production of exhibitions.

As they deal with procurement, acquisition, appraisal, appreciation and visual display of artwork, their job is highly specialized and, as such, require formal training art history, art theory or museum studies.

24. Floral designer

Average salary:  $34,690/year

One of the few art careers that don’t require a formal education, floral designers are offered the unique opportunity to combine their artistic expression with a love of flowers.

Also known as florists, they use their creativity and knowledge of flower design to arrange live, dried and silk flowers and greenery to make decorative displays according to the needs and requests of their clients.

25. Set and exhibit designer

Average salary:  $67,170/year

Set and exhibit designers are tasked with designing the physical sets for film, TV, theater and video productions, as well as displays for exhibitions, museums, galleries, libraries, shows and businesses. They generally specialize in one or the other, but many choose to do both.

One of the best things about working as a set and exhibit designer, meanwhile, is that you often get to meet and work directly with famous directors, actors and artists!

26. Game artist

Video game artists have one of the most high-paying jobs on our list — and arguably one of the best art careers out there. (Video game lovers will agree!)

Depending on the project they are working on, as well as their background and skills, game artists may be tasked with creating concept art, 3D models, user interfaces or other aspects or elements that appear in-game or on promotional materials.

27. Art historian

Average salary:  $72,890/year

Working in art doesn’t always require you to be an artist yourself. Having a passion for art can suffice!

Art historians study artworks and artifacts, carrying out research to uncover the history of the pieces. Sometimes, they study specific artists or periods of art, sharing their findings with students pursuing art degrees or with wider audiences through publications.

28. Web designer

Average salary:  $92,750/year

Web designers make a call for the visual aspects that appear on a user’s screen whenever they visit a website.

Unlike web developers who primarily work with code to create functional webpages, web designers focus on creating designs and layouts using software like Adobe Dreamweaver and Figma. Having said that, web designers are also often required to know some coding basics.

29. Art agent

Average salary:  Varies

Art agents (also known as artists’ agents) represent visual artists, the same way that talent agents represent models, musicians, writers, actors and other professionals in entertainment or sports.

Acting as a business intermediary, the agent sells the work of an artist and tries to identify and negotiate business opportunities for the artist in exchange for a commission.

30. Conservator

Average salary:  $54,890/year

Art conservators are responsible for restoring different artworks and artifacts using a number of methods, keeping the objects in good shape for years to come.

Conservation treatments include varnishing paintings, replacing paintings’ stretchers, filling and retouching defective areas, and treating deformations such as bulges, tears or dents.

Final thoughts

If you want to excel in any one of these jobs, make sure you do in-depth research and have what it takes to succeed. These jobs will feel like a hobby rather than actual work if you have your heart set on them.

Do you see yourself in any of the professions listed above? If so, let us know how you plan to go about it or if there are any other jobs you would like to do in the comments section below.

This article is a partial update of an earlier version originally published on January 8, 2018, and contains contributions by Electra Michaelidou.

Career Exploration

Creative Arts

How to Land a Job in the Art Industry: A Comprehensive Guide

• Assess your interests and skills
• Research art industry career paths
• Obtain relevant education
• Gain experience through internships
• Build a strong portfolio
• Network with art industry professionals
• Apply for art industry jobs
• Prepare for art industry job interviews
• Consider graduate school
• Stay updated with industry trends

If you've ever pondered about how to get a job in art, you're in the right place! This comprehensive guide is your roadmap to landing a job in the art industry, whether you dream of becoming a groundbreaking painter, an innovative graphic designer, or a visionary art director. Let's dive right in!

Assess your Interests and Skills

One of the first steps in embarking on your art career journey is to evaluate your interests and skills. What kind of art do you love? What are you good at? Here's a simple four-step process to help you figure out how to get a job in art that matches your interests and skills:

• Identify your art interests: Perhaps you're captivated by the vibrant world of animation or maybe fashion design is more your thing. Jot down all the areas of art that fascinate you.
• Highlight your skills: What art skills do you possess? Are you a whiz at sketching, or does your talent lie in crafting beautiful sculptures? Don't limit yourself to just technical skills—soft skills like creativity and problem-solving are equally important in the art world.
• Match your skills to your interests: Now, it's time to find the intersection of your interests and skills. This will give you a clearer picture of what art careers could be a good fit for you. For example, if you're interested in animation and have a knack for drawing, becoming an animator could be a viable career path.
• Identify areas for improvement: No one is perfect—we all have areas we can improve. Perhaps you love painting but struggle with color theory. That's okay! Identifying these areas gives you a target for further learning and development.

Remember, figuring out how to get a job in art isn't just about finding work—it's about finding work that you love and are good at. So, take your time with this step and be honest with yourself about your interests and skills.

Research Art Industry Career Paths

Now that you have a better grasp of your interests and skills, the next step in figuring out how to get a job in art is to research the various career paths in the art industry. Here's how you can start:

• Explore different roles: The art industry is vast with a multitude of roles. From traditional roles like painters and sculptors to digital roles like graphic designers and animators, the possibilities are endless. Spend some time learning about the different roles and what they entail.
• Understand the job market: It's equally important to understand the job market for different art careers. Which roles are in high demand? What's the average salary? This information can give you a realistic picture of your potential career path.
• Consider your long-term goals: Think about where you want to be in five, ten, or even twenty years. Do you want to be a renowned art director at a major design firm? Or perhaps running your own successful freelance business? Knowing your long-term goals can guide your career path research.

Researching career paths might seem like a daunting task, but it's a crucial step in figuring out how to get a job in art. So grab a cup of tea, find a comfy spot, and start exploring the fascinating world of art careers!

Obtain Relevant Education

Once you've explored the art industry and have a clearer vision of your career path, it's time to focus on obtaining the right education. But where do you start? Let's dive in.

• Choose the right program: There are countless art programs out there, from fine art degrees to digital design diplomas. What you choose should align with your career path. So, if your dream job is to become a 3D animator, a degree in animation would be a good fit.
• Take relevant courses: Along with your main program, consider taking additional courses that can enhance your skills. For instance, a course in art history can provide context and depth to your work. Or a business course can help if you plan to freelance or run your own art business.
• Participate in workshops: Many art schools and community centers offer workshops that can help you refine your skills and learn new techniques. These workshops can be a fun and engaging way to boost your education.

Remember, obtaining the right education is an important step in your journey of how to get a job in art. So don't rush this process. Take your time to research, explore, and choose the best educational path for you. After all, this is your art career we're talking about!

Gain Experience Through Internships

Now that you've got your educational path lined up, it's time to roll up your sleeves and jump into the real world. And there's no better way to do that than through internships. Here's why:

• Real world experience: Internships offer hands-on experience. You'll get to put your skills to the test and learn how things work firsthand. It's like a trial run before you start your actual job.
• Build your network: An internship allows you to meet and work with professionals in the art industry. These connections can be invaluable when you're looking for job opportunities in the future.
• Develop your portfolio: The work you do during your internship can be a great addition to your portfolio. It will show prospective employers that you're capable of producing professional work.

So, are internships the secret ingredient in the recipe of how to get a job in art? Well, they definitely play a key role. So start looking for internships that match your career goals. And remember, every bit of experience counts!

Build a Strong Portfolio

Alright, let's talk about the cornerstone of your art career—your portfolio. This is your golden ticket to showcase your talent, style, and versatility. So how do you create a portfolio that stands out? Here are some pointers:

• Showcase your best work: This goes without saying, but always put your best foot forward. Your portfolio should only include the pieces that you're most proud of. Keep it crisp and high-quality.
• Include a variety: Show that you can work with different mediums, styles, and themes. This will prove your versatility and adaptability, two traits highly valued in the art industry.
• Keep it updated: As you continue to grow and evolve as an artist, so should your portfolio. Regularly add new pieces and remove older ones that no longer represent your current skill level.
• Present it professionally: Presentation matters. Organize your portfolio in a neat, user-friendly manner. If it's a digital portfolio, make sure the website is easy to navigate. If it's physical, arrange the pieces in a visually pleasing way.

Remember, your portfolio is the visual representation of your journey of how to get a job in art. It's the first thing that prospective employers will look at, so make sure it leaves a lasting impression!

Network with Art Industry Professionals

Now that you've got your portfolio in check, let's move onto networking. It may sound intimidating, but it's just a fancy term for making friends who share your interests, in this case, art. Here's how you can get started:

• Join art communities: Look for local art clubs, online art forums, or social media groups. These communities can provide support, inspiration, and opportunities.
• Attend art events: Art galleries, exhibitions, and workshops are great places to meet like-minded people. Plus, they can offer insight into the latest trends and techniques in the art world.
• Reach out to professionals: Don’t be afraid to approach artists you admire. Most people are happy to share their experiences and advice. Just remember to be polite and respectful of their time.
• Build relationships: Networking isn't about using people for your benefit. It's about building genuine relationships. So, keep in touch with the people you meet, share your experiences, and support each other's work.

Remember, networking isn't a one-off thing. It's a continuous process that can greatly aid your journey on how to get a job in art. After all, in the art world, sometimes it's not just what you know, but who you know.

Apply for Art Industry Jobs

With your skills, experience, and network in place, you're ready to take the next step on how to get a job in art: applying. This might seem like the most nerve-wracking part, but it doesn't have to be. Here's a simple guide to help you out:

• Find the right job postings: Look for job advertisements on art-specific job boards, company websites, and even your social media networks. Be mindful of the job requirements and make sure they align with your skills and interests.
• Customize your application: Each job is unique, so your application should be too. Tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific job, showcasing your relevant skills and experiences. Don't forget to include your updated portfolio!
• Follow application instructions: This might seem obvious, but you'd be surprised how many people overlook this. Make sure to read the job posting thoroughly and follow any application instructions to the letter.
• Be patient: After you've sent off your application, all you can do is wait. It might take some time to hear back, so be patient. Use this time to continue developing your skills and networking.

Applying for jobs can feel like a full-time job in itself. But with each application, you're one step closer to landing that art job you've been dreaming of. Remember, it's all part of the process.

Prepare for Art Industry Job Interviews

So, you've sent out your applications and now you're starting to get responses. It's time to start preparing for your interviews. Interviewing for a job in the art industry can be a bit different compared to other fields, but don't worry, here's what you need to know:

• Study your potential employer: Take the time to learn about the company or organization you're interviewing with. What's their mission? What type of art do they produce or showcase? The more you know about them, the better you can tailor your responses and show you're a good fit.
• Review your portfolio: You'll most likely be asked about your work, so be ready to discuss it in depth. Be able to talk about your creative process, the inspiration behind your pieces, and how your work aligns with the company's style or mission.
• Practice common interview questions: While every interview is different, there are some common questions you can expect, like "Why do you want to work here?" or "Tell me about a time when...". Practice your responses, but keep them genuine and personal.
• Prepare questions of your own: Interviewing is a two-way street. Come prepared with questions about the company, the team, and the role. This shows you're serious about the job and helps you get a sense of if it's the right fit for you.

Remember, interviews are about more than just proving you're qualified—they're also an opportunity for you to see if the company is the right fit for you. So take a deep breath, you've got this.

Consider Graduate School

So, you've put your best foot forward and you're making progress on your career journey. But maybe you're feeling like you need a bit more to truly shine in the art world. One path you might consider is graduate school.

Now, I know what you're thinking: "More school? Really?" But hear me out. A graduate degree in the arts can provide many benefits:

• Deepen your knowledge: Graduate school allows you to dive deeper into your area of interest. Whether it's painting, sculpture, graphic design, or art history, you'll be able to focus on what you love and gain a deeper understanding of it.
• Improve your skills: Graduate programs often offer advanced training that can help you refine your art techniques and develop new ones. This can enhance your portfolio and make you more attractive to potential employers.
• Expand your network: Graduate school is a great place to meet like-minded individuals and industry professionals. These connections can be invaluable as you navigate the art world.
• Boost your credentials: A graduate degree can open up more job opportunities in the art industry, especially for roles that require advanced expertise or leadership skills.

However, graduate school is a big commitment of time and resources, so weigh the pros and cons carefully. As with any major decision, it's all about finding what works best for you in your journey of how to get a job in art.

Stay Updated with Industry Trends

Okay, so you've assessed your skills, researched career paths, got that shiny degree, and even made some headway into the industry. But the work doesn't stop there. If you want to stay competitive in the art world, it's important to keep your finger on the pulse of the industry. And how do you do that? By staying updated with industry trends.

Art, like any industry, is always evolving. Styles come and go, new techniques emerge, and what's considered 'in' today might be 'out' tomorrow. That's why it's important to stay informed. Here are a few ways to do just that:

• Follow art blogs and magazines: These publications often cover the latest happenings in the art world. Plus, they're a great source of inspiration!
• Attend art events: Exhibitions, workshops, art fairs — these events are not only fun but also a great way to see what's current and up-and-coming in the art world.
• Join online forums and social media groups: These platforms allow you to engage with other artists and art enthusiasts. You can discuss trends, share ideas, and even get feedback on your work.
• Take continuing education classes or workshops: These can help you stay up-to-date with new techniques and practices in your field of art.

Remember, staying relevant is key when figuring out how to get a job in art. By keeping up with industry trends, you'll not only improve your own art but also show potential employers that you're committed and adaptable—qualities they'll surely appreciate in a candidate.

If you're looking to take the next step in your art career and considering further education, check out the workshop ' Applying for Your MFA (Masters in Fine Art) ' by Ciarra K. Walters. This workshop will provide you with valuable insights and advice on what to expect and how to prepare for pursuing an MFA degree, which can significantly enhance your chances of landing a job in the art industry.

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21 Exciting Art Careers for Creative Students

Paint a picture of their future career opportunities.

Know a student who loves art but isn’t sure in what direction it will take them later in life? Although some art careers require conventional drawing and fine art skills, there are a lot of other outlets for creative expression. Some art careers take you behind the camera, some lead you to design logos and products, while others encourage you to design buildings and interior spaces. Share these interesting career paths with your creative students to show them how their love of art can translate into a job they’ll love just as much.

1. Industrial Designer

Since industrial design covers a wide array of products, there is a niche for every aspiring designer out there. While industrial designers do a lot, one of the main things is coming up with new designs for products ranging from medical equipment to smart phones to bicycles and cars. Salary range: $45,000 – $91,000

Learn more: Career Explorer/Industrial Designer

2. Art Teacher

Regardless of whether you see yourself working with toddlers, adults, or those in between, this occupation has you covered. At the elementary and secondary level, art teachers teach a broad range of visual art skills while art professors are more likely to specialize in one area such as painting or photography. Salary range: $40,000 – $95,000

Learn more: Firsthand/Art Teachers

3. Interior Decorator

Interior decorators are tasked with creating magazine-worthy spaces while staying within their client’s budget and design preferences. They select finishings, including paint, furniture, lighting, and more. Salary range: $37,000 – $110,000

Learn more: Occupational Outlook Handbook/Interior Designers

4. Web Designer

A web designer, not to be confused with a web developer, is generally responsible for the appearance and functionality of a website. While creative skills are a must, technical ability is as well, and web designers should have knowledge of programs like Photoshop and Dreamweaver. Salary range: $41,000 – $100,000

Learn more: TechnoJobs/Web Designer

5. Art Curator

Some art careers are best suited to a degree in art history, such as a curator. Art curators research works of art so they can make informed decisions about how to display them in museums and galleries. Additionally, they’re responsible for acquiring, cataloguing, and caring for works of art. Salary range: $70,000 – $170,000 ADVERTISEMENT

Learn more: LiveAbout/Art Curator

6. Photojournalist

A photojournalist tells a news story through the photographs they capture. Some art careers take you around the world, and photojournalism is one of them since you have to go where the story takes you, potentially even the front lines of war. While photojournalists can work for a single employer, they can also work as freelancers. Salary range: $38,000 – $51,000

Learn more: Firsthand/Photojournalists

7. Tattoo Artist

On the surface, the job of a tattoo artist is to create and apply custom tattoos to their clients’ skin, but there’s much more to it than that. They also need to ensure the health and safety of their clients through sterilization and careful work. Salary range: $24,000 – $108,000

Learn more: The Art Career Project/Tattoo Artist

8. Cake Decorator

Some cake decorators work in bakeries or grocery stores while others work for themselves. Although they decorate a number of different pastries, wedding cakes are one of the largest and most complex projects they create. Salary range: $22,000 – $43,000

Learn more: Zip Recruiter/Cake Decorator

9. Cinematographer

Many art careers are based in the film industry. Cinematographers are responsible for monitoring the camera and lighting crew during TV or film production. They’re also important in establishing the visual style of the product. Additionally, they need to have an understanding of lighting techniques. Salary range: $40,000 – $50,0000

Learn more: NFI/Cinematographer

10. Makeup Artist

Makeup artists work with clients to establish a “look” and then use makeup to create it. They can also work on film or TV sets to create a number of different looks using both makeup and prosthetics (think: aging a young actor for a scene taking place in the future). Salary range: $31,000 – $70,000

Learn more: Better Team/Makeup Artist

11. Forensic Sketch Artist

Forensic artists create sketches of suspects or missing persons based on interviews. In addition to drawing skills, sketch artists also need to have a working knowledge of victim psychology and human memory. Median salary: $63,000

Learn more: Forensics Colleges/Forensic Sketch Artist

12. Animator

Animators are found across many different media, so they usually specialize in a specific area such as film, websites, video games, and other digital platforms. Salary range: $40,000 – $100,000

Learn more: Indeed/Animator

13. Art Therapist

If you have a love of both psychology and art, then an art therapist might be the perfect career for you. There’s a lot of variety in this field since some art therapists work in schools, some work in psychiatric hospitals, and others work in private practice. Salary range: $30,000 – $80,000

Learn more: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics/Art Therapist

14. Graphic Designer

People who love both art and technology will enjoy a career as a graphic designer. Graphic designers create graphics for printed and electronic media. Salary range: $35,000 – $80,000

Learn more: Career Explorer/Graphic Designer

15. Art Valuer/Auctioneer

If you love art but are not a visual artist yourself, a career as an art auctioneer might be perfect for you. An art auctioneer researches art pieces, identifies the right markets for them, and then works with art collectors and appraisers to sell artwork. Salary range: $58,000 – $85,000

Learn more: The Art Career Project/Art Auctioneer

16. Video Game Designer

What’s better than a career that combines art and creativity and video games? A video game designer is a type of software developer that creates story ideas and worlds for video games that are played on desktop computers, mobile devices, or video game consoles. Salary range: $40,000 – $120,000

Learn more: Computerscience.org/Video Game Designer

17. Children’s Book Illustrator

Although some children’s book illustrators are employed by publishing houses or authors, most work as freelancers. Aspiring illustrators should study popular children’s books like those by Eric Carle. Salary range: $30,000 – $90,000

Learn more: Reedsy Blog/How To Become a Children’s Book Illustrator

18. Fashion Designer

You need a wide range of skills to become a fashion designer since it entails drawing, sewing, designing, and having marketing skills. While it’s not absolutely necessary, it’s probably a good idea to get a degree in fashion design or a related field. Salary range: $50,000 – $76,000

Learn more: WikiHow/Become a Fashion Designer

19. Jewelry Designer

Jewelry designers create prototypes of different kinds of jewelry such as rings, necklaces, bracelets, and other types of accessories. While some jewelry designers work from a home studio, other possibilities include jewelry stores, manufacturing facilities, design studios, and jewelry repair shops. Salary range: $35,000 – $53,000

Learn more: Indeed/How To Become a Jewelry Designer

20. Architect

If you love drawing and also have an affinity for buildings and design, you might make a great architect. Although architects don’t do the actual building, they are usually involved in every phase of the design process. Architects are in high-demand, so it’s an excellent career path if you value job security. Salary range: $80,000 – $100,000

Learn more: New School/What Degree Do You Need To Be an Architect?

21. Creative Director

A career as a creative director pays well while leaving you room for creative expression. Creative directors are responsible for developing and supervising a variety of creative projects in fields like marketing and advertising. Salary range: $115,000 – $165,000

Learn more: Brand Master Academy/How To Become a Creative Director

Looking for more career ideas? Check out these surprising science careers!

Plus, be sure to sign up for our free newsletters to be the first to know about our latest articles..

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22 Surprising Science Careers To Share With Your Students

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Early-Career Artist Research + Development Grant

Grant amount: four grants, $2,500 each, grant-funded period: january 1 – november 30, 2025 2025 applications will close october 27, 2024.

Grant Intention:  This grant supports public art research and development activities by Minnesota-based early-career artists.

Forecast Equity Commitment

Forecast seeks to fund a diverse group of artists working in all career stages and a range of public art practices and media. We place particular emphasis on supporting and amplifying the artistic work of BIPOC and Native artists, LGBTQIA+ artists, womxn artists, immigrant artists, artists from rural communities, and artists with disabilities. It is our value that our applicants, panelists, and grantees reflect the racial, cultural, and geographic diversity of our state, as well as the stories and perspectives of the artists and communities we serve.

We know that there is no “one-size-fits-all” language when it comes to talking about race and identity and that this language is always evolving. If you relate to what we’ve described here, please apply!

Grant Overview

This grant supports early-career artists in public art-related research and development, or with the planning phase of a freely accessible public art installation or activity in Minnesota. Activities could range from research to planning, community dialogues, site or budget development, or model building. R+D grants may be used for the development of proposals for other public or nonprofit agencies; however, they may not be used for private commissions.

• What is Public Art?   Broadly speaking, public art is artwork in the public realm, regardless of whether it is situated on public or private property, or whether it is supported through public or private funding. It can range from temporary to permanent work, murals to sculptures, interventions, performances, storytelling, iron pours, sound and light projects, dance and spoken word. It is free and accessible to all members of a community.
• are in the early stages of their creative development with 2-10 years of generative experience, and:
• have a focused direction and goals, even while still developing their artistic “voice”
• have yet to be substantially celebrated within their field, the media, funding circles or the public at large
• are vocational (as opposed to avocational, academic, amateur or educational) artists

Artists who have been in the field for longer than 10 years (excluding any time in a degree-granting program; as a dancer in work created by others; remounting the work of other choreographers; or time away from working as an artist due to circumstances–e.g., having children, caring for family members, long-term illness, etc.) are generally not eligible, even if they feel under-recognized.

Age is not a determining factor. Career stage is assessed by the cumulative number of years an artist has been generating their own work. Mid-career or established artists shifting from one artistic discipline to another will not be considered early career. For example, a composer with a substantial career in music who is now moving into film will not be considered early career.

Application Process

• Applications will only be accepted via the Submittable online application system ( https://forecastpublicart.submittable.com/submit ) during the grant application period. 2025 Grants are open now and will close on october 27, 2024 at 11:59pm CST.
• Complete applications include the following: brief proposal overview (limit 75 words), proposal (limit 500 words), benefit to the community (250 words), early-career status (250 words), impact on career (250 words), diversity of lived experience and perspective (250 words), resume (limit 2 pages), work samples, and work sample information.
• Please contact the Forecast Grants team if you need help submitting your application in English at [email protected] or 651-271-2792

These grants are made possible through generous funding from Jerome Foundation.

Application Materials

See our Selection Criteria and visit our  Public Artist Grants  page for additional information regarding proposals and the selection process.

Research + Development Overview  (limit 75 words): Brief summary of the proposed grant activities. This will be used for reference during the panel review process and for public announcements if the application is awarded funding.

Research + Development Proposal  (limit 500 words): Describe your proposed research and development. What are you investigating? What do you hope to develop? Who are your collaborators/partners?

Benefit to the Community  (limit 250 words): How do you define community? What is your connection to that community? How does your work benefit that community and how could this grant help you enhance or increase that benefit? Community can be defined in a variety of ways and applicants should speak to how their work will benefit their defined community.

Diversity of Lived Experience and Perspective  (limit 250 words): Forecast seeks to fund a diverse group of artists working in a range of public art practices and media. It is our value that our applicants, panelists, and grantees reflect the racial, cultural, gender, artistic, and geographic diversity of our state, and the stories and perspectives of the artists and communities we serve. Describe your lived experience and perspective as an artist working on public art.

Early-Career Status  (limit 250 words): Describe your status as an early-career artist.

COVID-19 Safety: Please note that you agree to the Minnesota COVID safety regulations as they apply to your project. MN state safety plan page:  https://mn.gov/covid19/for-minnesotans/stay-safe-mn/stay-safe-plan.jsp

Impact on Artistic Development/Career  (limit 250 words): How will this project support or impact your artistic development/career?

Resume  (limit 2 pages):

Upload a document (2 pages max) that lists your personal and professional experience.

• If the applicant is a collective or artist team, upload a resume for each member (2 page max per person). Name file using the format LastName_Resume

Work Samples  (limit 5 images): Work samples are accepted for a range of media and are based on a limit of 5 images. Please see detailed work sample submission requirements below. Applicants are allowed up to 5 images. Applicants choosing to submit sample types other than images should use the following guidelines:

• 1 image = 30 seconds of video/audio = half a page of written work (poetry, prose, fiction, etc.)
• 5 images OR
• 3 images and video/audio samples up to 1 minute OR
• 2.5 minutes of video/audio samples OR
• 2 pages of written work samples and 1 image, etc.
• Limit of 5 images, if images are the only work sample type submitted.
• Limit of 2.5 minutes total of video/audio if video/audio samples are the only work sample types submitted. Samples may be split into multiple video/audio files, however, the total length must stay within work sample allowances.
• Video/Audio samples must be edited to fit within length limits. Forecast will not accept video/audio samples that exceed the total length limits stated above.
• Edit and organize video/audio samples mindfully – do note that panelists may not watch video/audio submissions in their entirety. Keeping individual video/audio samples to a 30 second-2 minute limit will make it more likely that jurors will experience the particular sections you would most like them to review.
• Limit of 2.5 written pages if written work is the only work sample type submitted.
• PDF documents are preferred.
• Edit and format mindfully – do note that panelists may skim longer text submissions.

Formats other than those listed above are discouraged, but may be accepted on a case-by-case basis, if approved prior to our application deadline. Email  [email protected]  with any questions.

Work Sample Information: When uploading materials to Submittable, you will be asked to share basic project information, including: title, year, medium, location, temporary / permanent (or duration for performative work), and dimensions (if applicable). Applicants may also include brief additional information as necessary.

Selection Criteria & Descriptions

Quality & Clarity of Proposal: The strength of the proposed idea, clear consideration of of the scope of work proposed and the applicant’s ability to see it through to completion.

Value of Project to Artist’s Development: Applicants for this opportunity must be early-career artists and show potential for development, innovation, deepened practice, or new growth.

Benefit to the Community: This criterion can take many forms from enjoyment to beautification, civic engagement, filling a need or meaningful collaboration. Community can be defined in a variety of ways and applicants should speak to how their work will benefit their defined community.

Quality of Work Samples: This criterion relates both the quality of the work shared as well as the degree to which the work samples support the artist’s ability to complete the proposed work.

Eligibility Requirements

• Forecast’s grants support public art and public art-related activities. Forecast defines public art broadly to support a range of processes, formats, and contexts.
• Applicants must be in the appropriate career stage for the opportunity for which they apply – either mid-career or early-career.
• Applicants for the McKnight-funded Mid-Career Project Professional Development Grants must be mid-career artists. Applicants for the Jerome-funded Early Career Artist Research + Development and Early-Career Artist Project grants must be emerging artists.
• An artist may only apply for one grant from Forecast during an annual grant cycle.
• Applicant must be based in Minnesota, having physically lived in the state for 12 of the past 24 months, and remain a resident throughout the project period.
• Applicant’s project must be original and not duplicate previous work. Forecast grants do not support remounts or reinstallations, projects that begin prior to the start of the grant year, or projects that are ongoing.
• No ticket sales or fees may be charged; all events and installations must be freely accessible.
• Organizations and Forecast Public Art staff, Board, Consulting Partners and Jury members are not eligible.
• Students in K-12 educational programs or enrolled in undergraduate or graduate degree programs are not eligible.
• Projects may be additionally supported by public or nonprofit agencies, or through in-kind sources, however, private commissions are not eligible.
• Former grantees with outstanding final reports cannot be considered for additional Forecast grant funding until all final reports have been submitted and approved.
• An artist is not eligible to receive a project grant from Forecast in two consecutive years. An artist can receive a Research & Development grant in consecutive years, or a Research + Development or Professional Development grant followed by a Project Grant.
• Visit our YouTube channel for videos on grantee projects and info session recordings.
• Visit our legacy Grantee Vimeo Channel  to watch short documentaries highlighting previously funded projects.
• Read our Grant Tips to strengthen your application.
• Check out our  Frequently Asked Questions page for information about proposed work, Forecast’s grant program and our selection process.
• Contact [email protected] with any questions.

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Art Careers: What You Need to Succeed in Any Career Option

Art and design have significant implications in many art careers. A wide array of industries are now in need of professionals who have a background in art. If you have a knack for creativity and impressive design skills, then maybe an art career is right for you. Read on to discover what education, skills, and knowledge you need to pursue an art career.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the growth rate in arts and design occupations has declined slightly due to the outbreak of COVID-19 this year. However, this has only been a slight drop since art professionals are still essential in the booming industries of animation, multimedia artistry, and graphic design.

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Moreover, the median annual wage in art and design occupations was $48,130 in May 2019, which was higher than the median annual wage across all occupations, which stood at $39,810 at the time.

In this article, we’ll tell you about the best career paths in art and the top featured programs and schools that will help you work toward a degree in art. These are the academic and professional tools that you need to succeed in any art career.

Which Arts Degree Should I Get?

Since there are a plethora of different career paths available to art majors, your educational goals will depend on your interests. Though earning a graduate degree is a fine option, a bachelor’s degree in this field is also sufficient to secure a high-paying job. Certain arts jobs may even require only a high school diploma or associate degree. 

With an associate degree, you will be prepared for entry-level art and design positions. This degree will give you a solid foundation of applicable skills and concepts in your field of choice, which can be useful for further study. 

Although this degree seldom leads to advanced positions, it will allow you to seek employment in a wide array of fields like fashion, photography, and graphic design. 

There are numerous associate degrees available in the arts. The two main options include an associate of applied business (AAB) and an associate of applied science (AAS). With an AAB, you can pursue a job in fashion design, graphic design, and interior design. With an AAS, you may prefer to seek employment in areas such as illustration, multimedia technology, or recording arts technology. 

The main advantage of an associate degree is its minimal cost and relatively quick completion time. An associate degree is the first step in many professional and academic journeys and can help you decide if you want to commit to a career in the field. Many schools also offer associate programs that are available entirely online, which allows for greater flexibility. 

Below are some of the best affordable online associate programs in art:

• Gateway Technical College – Kenosha, WI
• Community College of Vermont – Winooski, VT

Bachelor’s Degree

With a four-year bachelor’s degree in hand, you will become a highly sought-after candidate for many jobs. A bachelor’s degree is the minimum education requirement for most design-related careers. 

If you pursue this degree, you will learn the skills needed to gain a position that will offer you the potential for career advancement. It can also function as the next step toward a graduate degree, such as a master’s degree or doctorate.

A bachelor’s degree curriculum will provide you with extensive knowledge in your field of study. Though a master’s degree may be ideal for higher-level jobs, you may still acquire a lucrative role in a managerial capacity with a bachelor’s degree.

Many colleges offer bachelor’s programs that are taught partially or fully online, which means you will have the option to continue working while pursuing a degree. Some schools also offer special tuition discounts for students who choose to complete their degree online. Remember that earning a bachelor’s degree is also an essential step for those who later want to earn a master’s degree.

At the bachelor level, you can expect to earn a salary of $50,000 to $100,000 per year, with many opportunities to advance your career. You may choose to pursue a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Art and Design.

The former option is offered in fields such as art history and with the latter, you may specialize in fields such as web design and development. Some of the jobs you can secure with a bachelor’s degree include industrial design, architecture, multimedia artistry, and many more.

Below are some of the best online bachelor’s programs in art available:

Southern New Hampshire University Online – Manchester, NH

Lindenwood University – Saint Charles, MO

Central Michigan University – Mount Pleasant, MI

Master’s Degree

Master’s degrees come highly recommended as they are a great way to enhance your chances of being hired in an exciting and lucrative role. These degrees are recommended for those who want to break into a high-level art or design career, as they offer advanced knowledge and skills training in several areas. 

For instance, if you wish to fill an executive role, like an art director, animation supervisor, or executive producer, then a master’s degree is the way to go. 

Most master’s programs require two years of full-time study, though they may be completed faster in an accelerated format. Many programs emphasize leadership skills and build on the skills learned in a bachelor’s program. 

Some master’s programs are offered partly or fully online and offer a flexible, high-quality education. As mentioned above, accelerated programs are also available for students who wish to obtain their degrees quickly. 

Master’s programs usually provide practical, professional experience in your area of interest. For example, you might intern at an art museum as part of an art history program or at an animation studio as part of an animation program.

An MA (master of arts) can be obtained in many concentrations, including integrative design, fine arts, and graphic design.

Below are some of the best online master’s programs in art:

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Northwestern State University of Louisiana – Natchitoches, LA

Minneapolis College of Art and Design – Minneapolis, MN

Azusa Pacific University – Azusa, CA

What Skills Do I Need to Pursue a Career in Art?

Apart from education and training, almost every industry requires professionals to possess an impressive skill set that makes them a good fit for their desired role. This is especially true for art careers since artists rely more on creativity and personality traits than scientific knowledge. 

When considering an art career, you should consider improving the following skills.

Creativity and Passion

Creativity is a foundational skill when it comes to art and design. The field extends beyond just traditional art and blends concepts of technology, marketing, and even psychology. Knowing how to integrate these topics into a captivating product requires immense creativity. 

Having a sincere passion and curiosity for art is a big help. If you love what you do, it won’t seem like work. With that in mind, you should always seek to improve and increase your knowledge in your area of expertise, as this will undoubtedly help further your career.

Communication and Teamwork

It’s important to be able to articulate what you’re trying to create, whether artistically or interpersonally. Being a good communicator is essential whether you’re working with your peers or trying to attract patrons. The most important soft skills in the field of art and design are networking, time management, and listening. 

Most of the best inventions and breakthroughs in science have been achieved through collaboration and teamwork. The same is true for art and design. Being in a room with creative, open-minded people is seldom a bad thing, and it can help you immensely as you learn more about product/service design.

Technical Knowledge

As an artist, having transferable skills such as those mentioned above is important, but the foundation of your career will rest on your technical knowledge. Whether it’s art history, design principles, or computer-aided artistry, being well-versed in all concepts within the field will dictate your success. Not only will you be able to expand your job prospects, but you’ll also be able to impress others with your knowledge.

You should also remember to stay curious and learn as much as you can about the job you want. Try reading books, taking extra classes, or watching films or videos that excitingly discuss art. Reach out to professionals involved in the field. Furthermore, you should ask instructors for tips that will help you succeed. 

Business Savvy

An important yet overlooked facet of many artists is their keen business sense. Artists create enticing products, but they also need an audience that is accepting of their work. This is why it is essential to advertise your talent to the world. You should network with popular artists and promote your content through social media and in person.

For instance, Instagram and Facebook have become increasingly popular tools for promoting businesses and content. If you prefer to promote your art traditionally, you can hang flyers, host social events, and communicate face-to-face with potential clients.

Attention to Detail 

One last important skill that you should hone is your attention to detail. This applies not only to the art you create but also to the way you promote it. Being a critical thinker will help you investigate problems and setbacks that are holding you back from a successful career. 

If you think your content is not good enough, ask for opinions to try to break down the nature of the issue. If you feel your product is excellent but not taking off like it should, ask yourself what you can do to enhance your success. Being a meticulous thinker will be very beneficial in a field as unpredictable and exciting as art and design.

Most Popular Art Careers

The following list of the most popular art careers is based on data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Art Directors 

Median Pay in 2019 : $94,220

Number of Jobs in 2019: 99,100

Art directors are responsible for the visual style and images seen in magazines and newspapers, on product packaging, and in movie and television productions.

Fashion Designers

Median Pay in 2019: $73,790

Number of Jobs in 2019: 28,300

Fashion designers create clothing, accessories, and footwear.

Graphic Designers 

Median Pay in 2019: $52,110

Number of Jobs in 2019: 281,500

Graphic designers create visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers.

Multimedia Artists and Animators 

Median Pay in 2019: $75,270

Number of Jobs in 2019: 67,500

Multimedia artists and animators create images that appear to move, as well as visual effects for various forms of media and entertainment.

Median Pay in 2019: $80,750

Number of Jobs in 2019: 129,900

Architects plan and design houses, factories, office buildings, and other structures.

FAQs About Art Careers

I’m Not Sure What Career I Want in Art. What Should I Do?

It is common to be perplexed about exactly what career path you should pursue, especially in a field as vast as art. Here are some questions you should ask yourself when looking for the right career:

• What am I looking for out of a career – monetary gain, or fulfilling work?
• What type of work environment do I thrive in?
• How far am I willing to push myself to achieve my goals?

How Should I Start My Career as an Artist?

Though there are no rules, here are some tips that may help you get your career off the ground:

• Develop your artistic knowledge and skills: Take courses or consider going to art school; practice and hone your craft; learn from your mentors or idols; seek advice from experienced artists.
• Promote yourself and your work: Develop a social media network; make friends with artists and seek mentorship; enter art competitions and go to galleries.
• Learn how to monetize your product: Consider taking business-related courses in conjunction with your art courses; budget your time and money efficiently; explore new ideas and modalities on how to create and sell your art.

Are There Other Resources Available to Help Me Make a Decision?  At Career Karma, we provide academic and professional advice to help you make informed choices. If you want to learn more, here is an article that discusses the best careers in technology and design , and another that talks about the top tech design careers . If you’re passionate about art, these articles will help your decision-making.

About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication .

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