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Artists create art to communicate ideas, thoughts or feelings. They use a variety of methods:
- oil paints
- watercolors
- acrylics
- pastels
- pencils
- pen and ink
- plaster
- clay
- computers
Artists’ works may be realistic, stylized or abstract and may depict objects, people, nature or events.
Artists generally fall into one of four categories:
Art directors formulate design concepts and presentation approaches for visual communications. Craft artists create or reproduce handmade objects for sale or exhibition. Fine artists, including painters, sculptors and illustrators, create original artwork, using a variety of media and techniques. Multi-media artists and animators create special effects, animation or other visual images on film, on video, or with computers or other electronic media.
How long will it take?
Many colleges and universities offer programs leading to a bachelor’s or master’s degree in fine arts. There are also independent art schools. AC can give you the credits you need for the first two years of an art degree.
How much will you earn?
Median annual earnings of salaried art directors were $68,100 in 2006. Median annual earnings of salaried craft artists were $24,090. Median annual earnings of salaried fine artists, including painters, sculptors and illustrators were $41,970. Median annual earnings of salaried multi-media artists and animators were $51,350.
Earnings for self-employed artists vary widely.
Where can I work?
A full 62% of artists are self-employed. Some charge very little while they gain experience and build a reputation for their work. Well-established freelance fine artists and illustrators can earn a considerable amount of money. Of the artists who were not self-employed, many worked for advertising agencies, publishers and design firms.
AC can help you get there!
