Fine Artists communicate ideas, thoughts, and feelings through original artwork such as paintings, illustrations and sculptures. Most artwork from these artists is displayed in museums, art galleries, corporate collections, and sold to private collectors.
Most artists are self-employed, meaning that they create artwork based on their own ideas or commissions, not based on assigned tasks. An artist’s income is determined on the sale of their artwork, making for an unsteady source of income. As such most artists have other jobs to support their art careers, like working in museums and art galleries.
Most artists specialize in one or two different art forms like painting, illustrating, sculpting, sketching, etc. Depending on the specialty, some artists work with computers in creating their artwork.
There is no formal education required to be an artist. However, formal training is recommended to refine technique as well as teach aspiring artists principles of the art business and how to sell their art. Training can be received from art schools offering certificates, and many obtain a bachelor’s degree which allows them to seek employment as art directors, curators. etc. Take a look at the programs and degrees being offered in many locations.