Introduction
As an artist, you may be wondering what kinds of jobs are available to you. While there are certainly traditional art-related jobs such as becoming a curator or an art director, there are also a wide variety of other jobs that may be less familiar to you. This article will explore some of the different options that are available to artists, including freelance illustration, teaching art classes, working in a gallery, selling prints and originals online, crafting handmade goods, writing about art, and designing logos & branding.
Freelance Illustration
Freelance illustration is a great way for artists to make money while still being able to work on their own projects. Freelance illustrators create artwork for clients, from logos and book covers to illustrations for websites and magazines. According to a survey by the Graphic Artists Guild, the average rate for freelance illustration is $50 per hour.
The benefits of freelance illustration include being able to work from home or anywhere with an internet connection, setting your own hours, and having the freedom to choose which projects to take on. To become a successful freelance illustrator, you should start by building up a portfolio of your work, both physical and digital, so that potential clients can see your style and skills. You should also create a website or social media page to showcase your work and make it easier for people to find you. Networking and attending events related to your field can also help you get more freelance illustration gigs.
Teaching Art Classes
If you have experience in the arts, you may want to consider teaching art classes. Teaching art classes can be extremely rewarding, as you get to share your knowledge and passion with others. There are many different types of art classes available, from painting and drawing to sculpture and animation. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for art teachers was $58,590 in 2019.
To find teaching opportunities, you can look for local schools, universities, community centers, and art studios that offer classes. You can also look for online teaching platforms, such as Udemy, where you can create and sell your own courses. In addition to a degree in art or education, you should also have a good understanding of classroom management and pedagogy. Having a portfolio of your work and references from previous employers can also help you stand out as a teacher.
Working in a Gallery
Working in a gallery can be an exciting and rewarding job for an artist. As a gallery employee, you will be responsible for managing the gallery’s collection, organizing exhibitions, and helping to promote the gallery. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for a gallery worker was $42,680 in 2019.
To work in a gallery, you should have a strong knowledge of art history, as well as experience in curating and organizing exhibitions. You should also be comfortable working with the public, as you will often be interacting with visitors to the gallery. A degree in art or art history can be helpful when applying for gallery jobs, as can any experience you have in sales or marketing.
Selling Prints and Originals Online
Selling prints and originals online is a great way for artists to make money while still maintaining control over their work. Selling online allows you to reach a wider audience and make more money than you would selling in person. According to a survey by Artsy, 57% of artists make more than half of their income through selling online.
To get started selling prints and originals online, you should first create an online shop, such as Etsy or Shopify. You should also create professional-looking images of your work to showcase on the shop. Additionally, you should research the best ways to market your shop, such as using social media and email campaigns. Finally, it’s important to stay organized and keep track of orders and payments.
Crafting Handmade Goods
Crafting handmade goods is another great way for artists to make money. Handmade goods can range from jewelry and clothing to home decor and furniture. According to a survey by Etsy, the average monthly income for handcraft sellers was $1,100 in 2018.
To get started selling handmade goods, you should first decide what type of items you want to make. Next, you should research the best materials and supplies to use for your products. Additionally, you should create professional-looking images of your products to showcase on your shop. Finally, you should market your shop using social media and other online platforms.
Writing About Art
If you’re passionate about art and have a knack for writing, you may want to consider writing about art. Writing about art can involve anything from reviews and essays to interviews and profiles. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for writers and authors was $62,170 in 2019.
To get started writing about art, you should build up a portfolio of your work, both physical and digital. You should also research publications that accept submissions from freelance writers. Additionally, you should network with editors and other writers to increase your chances of getting published. Finally, you should create a blog or website to showcase your work and make it easier for people to find you.
Designing Logos & Branding
Designing logos and branding is another great way for artists to make money. Logo and branding design involves creating visual identities for companies, organizations, and individuals. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for graphic designers was $52,110 in 2019.
To be successful in logo and branding design, you should have a strong understanding of design principles and color theory, as well as knowledge of software such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Additionally, you should create a portfolio of your work to show potential clients. You should also stay up to date on the latest trends in the industry and network with other designers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are a variety of jobs available to artists, from freelance illustration and teaching art classes to working in a gallery and selling prints and originals online. Additionally, artists can make money by crafting handmade goods, writing about art, and designing logos & branding. Each of these jobs has its own unique benefits and challenges, but all of them offer the opportunity to make a living while doing something you love.
No matter which job you choose, it’s important to remember that success doesn’t happen overnight. It takes hard work, dedication, and a willingness to learn and grow. With the right attitude and effort, you can create a career that is both financially and emotionally rewarding.
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