Artist: Job Duties, Skills and Salary 2025

What Does an Artist do?

Artists create original works of art through mediums like painting, drawing, or sculpture. They express ideas and emotions visually, often exhibiting their work or selling pieces to collectors.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

Artists in the Art & Entertainment field handle essential tasks and contribute significantly to achieving team and organizational goals. Here are some of their primary responsibilities:

• Conceptualizing and creating original artwork in chosen medium(s).
• Interpreting client briefs or project requirements to produce commissioned pieces.
• Collaborating with clients, art directors, or other stakeholders as needed.
• Experimenting with different techniques and styles to expand artistic repertoire.
• Participating in exhibitions, shows, or events to showcase and sell artwork.

How to Become an Artist

Launching a career as an Artist requires a specific education. We outline the essential qualifications, skills, and steps to enter this field.

Qualification

• Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts or related field
• Portfolio of previous artwork
• Experience exhibiting or selling artwork

Requirements & Skills

• Passion for art and creativity.
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines.
• Flexibility to adapt to different artistic styles and project requirements.
• Knowledge of art history, contemporary trends, and techniques.
• Strong attention to detail and dedication to craft.

Artist Salary Guide

Wondering what Artists earn? Explore salary ranges by experience, and career tips to maximize your earning potential.

The average salary for an Artist in the U.S. is approximately $58,150 per year and can vary from entry-level to senior positions. Artists may receive a wide range of benefits.

Artist Salary Career Steps

Level	Experience	Avg. Salary per Year
Veteran	20+ years	$72,688
Senior	11+ years	$63,965
Experienced	6-10 years	$58,150
Mid Level	3-5 years	$52,335
Entry Level	0-2 years	$43,613

How to Advance Your Career

Artists typically begin their careers with a strong foundation in art education, either through formal university programs, private art schools, or self-taught practices. Early career stages often involve building a portfolio, participating in local exhibitions, and gaining exposure through social media and art shows. Many artists start by selling works at smaller galleries or online platforms.

As they gain recognition, artists can exhibit in larger galleries, secure representation by art dealers, or receive invitations to participate in national and international art fairs. Professional development might include residencies, grants, and fellowships that provide opportunities to explore new mediums and collaborate with other artists. With established reputations, artists may branch into teaching, curating, or even starting their own studios or galleries.

Continuous learning, networking, and adapting to new trends and technologies are crucial for artists to evolve their craft and sustain their careers. Success often depends on the artist's ability to connect with audiences and maintain relevance in the ever-changing art market.

Typical Work Environment

Artists typically work in studios, which can be located in homes, shared artist spaces, or separate commercial spaces. These studios are spaces designed to inspire creativity and are often filled with tools, materials, and ongoing projects. The environment is usually customized to the artist’s medium and style, providing a personal and functional space for creation.

Many artists also spend part of their time in galleries, museums, and various venues where their work is displayed or sold. Networking and promotional events are also a significant part of an artist’s life, involving travel and social interactions.

Work hours for artists are highly variable and often non-standard; many work part-time on their art while maintaining other employment until they can support themselves through their art alone. For many artists, the work is passion-driven, meaning they may spend long and irregular hours in their studio, especially when preparing for shows or meeting deadlines. Remote work is common, especially for digital artists who can work from virtually anywhere.