As an artist, you’ll use your creativity to produce original pieces of art using a variety of materials and methods. You’ll also explore ways to show and sell your work. Learn more about a career as an artist, find out what it involves and what you’ll need to study and do to get a role.
As an artist, there’s a wealth of methods and subject matters available to express your ideas. You may choose to use a variety of these or specialise in one method like painting, drawing or sculpture, or focus on a type of art like landscapes, portraits, or abstract art.
You’ll create your own pieces to sell to the public or work on client commissions. You might use an agent or a gallery to help create interest and build your reputation.
Artists tend to be self-employed so working environments vary. You could work from home or hire a studio, working either independently or with other artists. A studio could give you an extra place to display your work and an opportunity to be part of a wider artist community.
Daily tasks will vary but could involve:
The average salary for an artist in the UK is £24,960. Graduates start at around £20,000.
Artists may travel for residencies in the UK or abroad to carve out some time away from other commitments and distractions.
Artists mostly work from home or in a studio.
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