Artist - career development

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.

Find out how you'll build skills and experience below.

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How will your artist career progress?

There is no set career path for an artist so it’s up to you to shape it. You may want to focus on developing your work independently, or you could seek further training and learning opportunities as an artist’s assistant or through a degree course.

As you become more successful you may have your own studio, regular shows, and a network of contacts. You could also consider studying a business course to help you sell your work.

You might also consider moving into related areas such as art conservation, art therapy or teaching art in schools and universities.

What opportunities are there for career development?

Many artists choose to develop their skills and talents through short courses or a postgraduate qualification. This way, you can speak to other creative people such as lecturers who may be artists themselves. They can offer support and advice on your work.

You could also learn new artistic techniques by working as a fabricator. This involves making other artists work on their behalf.

Professional organisations you might join include, a-n: The Artists Information Company.

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