List of Different Art Careers

There are many careers available in the visual arts. Along with the traditional Fine Arts, there are career paths in the commercial art field such as Art Director, Graphic Designer, Multi-Media Artist and Animator. Many artists work in education, with public schools recruiting art teachers to fill slots vacated by retiring educators.

Fine artists create original artwork such as paintings, sculptures and prints. Illustrators create original artwork on assignment, bridging the fine and commercial art fields. Many fine artists strive to show in galleries, but the competition is tough. The Internet has become an important selling tool for fine artists as they strive to create a market for their work. Pursuing a degree in Fine Arts can hone skills and create valuable career contacts. It takes passion and commitment to be a fine artist, and many supplement their income with other work while pursuing that passion.

The commercial art field has bloomed with digital media, with jobs available in Multi-Media and Animation to create film, video and online art. This is a hot area that pays well, with salaried positions averaging over $50,000 annually. Art Directors and Graphic Designers work with print and digital media, as well as environmental graphics. Pursuing coursework or a degree tailored to a specific art field is helpful in career advancement. Some schools offer funding and scholarships. While salaried positions are available, many artists are self-employed. Earnings vary with ability, experience and reputation. Self-employed artists are responsible for purchasing their own health care. While starting out, many self-employed artists supplement their income with part-time work.

To become an art teacher in a public school, a bachelor's degree is required, along with a teaching certificate. Community colleges usually require a master's degree. Colleges and universities with art programs may offer master's degree programs for art teachers, or a combined studio arts/teaching program. Colleges and universities recruit art teachers from such programs. Private schools, arts and recreation programs, and summer camps hire art teachers, and may not require degrees.