I am a
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Fine artist

Fine artists create original works of art using methods like painting, drawing and sculpture.

Average annual salary

Variable

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Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • a college course
  • self-teaching

University

You'll need a high level of skill and talent in your chosen art form. To develop these skills, you could train by doing a degree or postgraduate award in:

  • art and design
  • art history
  • fine art
  • visual arts
  • graphic arts

Entry requirements:

  • a foundation diploma in art and design
  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

College

You can do a Level 4 Higher National Certificate or Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Art and Design or Art Practice.

Entry requirements:

  • 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a higher national certificate or higher national diploma

Entry requirements:

Volunteering

Volunteering with community arts projects can open up possibilities and extend your network of contacts, which could be useful for finding work.

OtherRoutes

If you're exceptionally talented and have taught yourself, you may be able sell your work without formal training or qualifications.

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Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Skills:
  • 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
  • the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
  • to be flexible and open to change
  • patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
  • knowledge of English language
  • knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
  • the ability to learn through your work
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
  • active listening skills
  • the ability to read English
  • the ability to use your judgement and make decisions
  • concentration skills
  • physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
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What you'll do:

Fine artists create original works of art using methods like painting, drawing and sculpture.

Typically you will:

  • work from your own ideas, or a commission from an individual or an organisation
  • sell your work through an agent or through galleries, exhibitions, shops or online
  • research subjects, materials and new artistic techniques
  • network with agents, dealers, gallery owners and other artists
  • attend exhibitions and join artists’ groups

You might also:

  • work as ‘artist in residence’ – running classes and workshops in places like schools, prisons or hospitals
  • teach art classes privately, in colleges or through community learning
  • run local art projects

Location : You could work in a creative studio, in a workshop or from home.

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Salary:

Starter : variable
Experienced : variable

These figures are a guide

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Working hours:

39 - 41 hours irregular

Working Pattern is freelance / self-employed managing your own hours

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Career Path:

You could move into areas like art therapy, art conservation, valuation or art sales.

You could combine working as an artist with teaching.

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