Artists:Requirements - Vault (2024)

High School

In the public school system, there is very little art instruction at the elementary level, so high school is your chance to take as many art courses as you can. Many schools offer general art instruction that exposes you to several techniques and principles. Some schools offer specialized art classes in painting, sculpture, design principles, graphic design, photography, and computer graphics. You may have to find other art instruction outside of your school if you are interested in ceramics, woodworking, stained glass, or another specialty. Check community centers, junior colleges, independent schools of art, or local galleries that might offer classes.

Postsecondary Training

There are no formal educational requirements for becoming a visual artist. However, most artists benefit from training, and most attend art schools or programs in colleges and universities. Many artists major in fine arts and some go on to earn a master's degree. Master's programs may offer majors in ceramic art, fiber art, art history, film and photography, sculpture, and a number of others.

Two-year or associate's degree programs are available in many art specialties, including computer graphics, multimedia art, advertising design, fashion design, illustration, and photography, among others.

Some types of artists need training in an additional field. For example, medical illustrators are required to have training in biology and anatomy. Medical or scientific illustrators not only have a four-year degree in art with an emphasis in premedical courses, but most have a master's degree in medical illustration. Only a few schools in the United States offer this specialized course work.

Apprenticeships are sometimes available in certain art fields, such as glassmaking, ceramics, printmaking, woodworking, and papermaking. Apprenticeships allow young artists the opportunity for intensive training under master artists while actually producing art objects.

Other Education or Training

Besides earning a degree, there are many workshops, private studios, and individuals that offer instruction, practice, and exposure to art and the works and ideas of other artists. It is wise to learn a variety of techniques, be exposed to as many media and styles as possible, and gain an understanding of the history and theory of art. By learning as much as possible, you will have more choices for your own artistic expression. Professional associations such as the American Craft Council, International Sculpture Center, National Art Education Association, and the Society of Illustrators also provide classes, workshops, and other continuing education opportunities.

Artists:Requirements - Vault (2024)

FAQs

What qualifications do you need to be an artist? ›

There are no formal educational requirements for becoming a visual artist. However, most artists benefit from training, and most attend art schools or programs in colleges and universities. Many artists major in fine arts and some go on to earn a master's degree.

What qualifies you as an artist? ›

While craft and fine artists do not require any formal education for employment, many do have bachelor's degrees in art. Artists usually need to build portfolios through practice, professional experience, or education, such as a master of fine arts program.

What skills are required to be an artist? ›

What it takes
  • knowledge of the fine arts.
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail.
  • the ability to work well with your hands.
  • design skills and knowledge.
  • the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning.
  • thinking and reasoning skills.
  • the ability to use your initiative.

How many years does it take to become an artist? ›

Formal education, such as a Bachelor's or Master's in Fine Arts, can take 4-6 years, but becoming an artist also involves continuous personal development and practice beyond academia. There's no set timeline, as artistic growth is a lifelong process.

What qualifies a person to be called an artist? ›

an artist is: a person who creates art (such as painting, sculpture, music, or writing) using conscious skill and creative imagination.

Can you be an artist without a degree? ›

Unlike professions such as teaching and nursing, there is no set path to becoming an artist. Some people are self-taught and forgo formal education while others choose to earn a bachelor's degree in art. “I think you have to do a lot more legwork if you don't have a degree,” Shipp says.

Who can call himself an artist? ›

a person who practises or performs any of the creative arts, such as a sculptor, film-maker, actor, or dancer. There is no mention if qualifications, how much money you make or the years of experience you have.

What makes you officially an artist? ›

Definition of an Artist

An artist is anyone capable of conceptualizing an emotion, idea, or moment, or of more value, someone who can express themselves using their imagination. Art is considered any creative work whether it is a painting, a sign, a poem, a sculpture, or even a tattoo.

What is a qualified artist? ›

You're a qualified performing artist if you meet all of the following requirements: Performed services in the performing arts as an employee for at least two employers during the tax year. Received wages of $200 or more from at least two of those employers.

What are 5 things an artist needs to be successful? ›

How To Become A Successful Artist: 5 Essential Tips (& 5 To Avoid...
  • Diversify and Prosper Through Even the Hard Times.
  • Art Marketing Expands Your Audience.
  • Freelancing and Consulting.
  • Emulate A Successful Artist You Admire.

What makes a good artist? ›

In order to think creatively, an artist must have an open mind. Being able to see things from different perspectives can arm an artist with insight that other people may not have. Also, the ability to put yourself in someone else's shoes can greatly increase your chances of creating art that speaks to your audience.

What do artists need to work? ›

Regardless of the medium, essential elements for art include creativity, imagination, skill, and passion for self-expression. Artists also need a studio or workspace, materials, and tools to bring their vision to life and create captivating works that inspire audiences.

Do artists earn a lot of money? ›

In fact, there is a lot of money in art! Nevertheless, you need to be careful how you pursue your financial objectives in the art world. The art world is marked by an enormous set of unwritten rules in which some things are not accepted and can harm your profile and career as an artist.

What age are most artists? ›

Artist age breakdown
Artist YearsPercentages
40+ years47%
30-40 years38%
20-30 years16%

Does being an artist pay well? ›

The best Artist jobs can pay up to $157,000 per year.

An artist produces creative works in the form of painting, photography, sculpture, drawing, performance, mixed media, or other art forms.

What makes a person become an artist? ›

According to personality trait theories, people who are considered artistic tend to be attracted to activities that involve creativity, originality, and independence, such as singing, dancing, writing, or just expressing their uniqueness. Artistic people also tend to be more impulsive than others.

How do I start an artist career? ›

While it can be scary to follow your passion into a career as an artist, fewer things may be more fulfilling.
  1. Learn Your Craft. Developing your skillset as an artist is the first step. ...
  2. Get A Workspace. ...
  3. Develop Your Craft. ...
  4. Build Your Online Website Portfolio. ...
  5. Promote Yourself As An Artist.

What do you need to become a professional artist? ›

How to become a professional fine artist
  1. Practice with multiple artistic mediums. ...
  2. Earn a bachelor's degree. ...
  3. Complete an internship. ...
  4. Create art. ...
  5. Connect with other artists. ...
  6. Consider earning an MFA. ...
  7. Decide what type of art inspires you. ...
  8. Create two portfolios.
Jun 24, 2022

What are the requirements to be a music artist? ›

Musicians and singers typically do not need formal postsecondary education to enter the occupation. However, those pursuing careers in some genres, such as classical or opera, may choose to earn a bachelor's or higher degree. Musicians and singers need extensive training and regular practice to acquire their skills.

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