Occupation Profile for Fine Artists, Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators
Create original artwork using any of a wide variety of mediums and techniques, such as painting and sculpture.
Signficant Points
- About 62 percent of artists and related workers are self-employed.
- Keen competition is expected for both salaried jobs and freelance work because the arts attract many talented people with creative ability.
- Artists usually develop their skills through a bachelor’s degree program or other postsecondary training in art or design.
- Earnings for self-employed artists vary widely; some well-established artists earn more than salaried artists, while others find it difficult to rely solely on income earned from selling art.