Arts and Design

The first thing that might come to mind when you think of a career as an artist is someone who creates and sells fine arts such as paintings or sculpture, but the field of art encompasses many more opportunities for a career in many industries.

Multimedia artists design images for television, websites, movies, computer programs or video and mostly utilize computer images to convey messages or highlight information. Craft artists make and sell home décor objects including pottery, rugs or clothing. Photographers are in demand for a variety of products such as commercial art, posters and signs, or packaging as well as fine art.

Education for an artist is important to hone their talents, study historical methods and experiment with new techniques. Those wishing to become artists can complete associates or bachelors degrees or work in an apprenticeship to learn those areas that are similar to a trade such as weaving or furniture making. Artists often work independently and are self-employed as they create market and sell their own work. Others work for or with galleries who can introduce an artist’s talent to a wider range of patrons. Wages for this part of the profession vary greatly depending on the demand for the artists work.

Multimedia artists work as animators or illustrators and usually use computers to create visual images to be used in video games, packaging, or film. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics the median wage in this occupation is $27.00 per hour or around $54,000 annually.