Careers for Artists

If you are creative and love the visual arts, chances are that you’ve considered pursuing a career in the field. However, it can be difficult for students in any discipline to think of all the careers that might be available to them – and perhaps your ideal vocation may not be one that would easily come to mind! The following ten career options are perfect for artists of all types. Whether you’re a student in graphic design, studio art or another art program at Concordia, you may find that one of these options is the perfect path for you!  

Art Director 

Art directors are responsible for the visual aspects of magazines, newspapers, design firms, movie and video producers and more. They typically oversee the work of other artists, making sure that their creations fit the requirements of a particular style of visual communication by articulating an overall vision for a project. Art directors earn over $100,000 annually and experience average job growth, making this career a lucrative one.  

Art Teacher/Professor 

Art teachers may instruct students in schools at the elementary, middle and high school, or postsecondary level. They can also lead classes at community centers or other locations. At Concordia, the K-12 art education program trains future art educators in vital pedagogical and artistic techniques. Salaries for art teachers can range greatly based on their place of employment, although public school teachers typically earn around $65,000 annually.  

Animator 

Animators are artists who create moving pictures for various forms of media and entertainment. They must usually possess skills in both computer graphics, graphic design and general artistic techniques. Animators often work in teams with other animators and artists to create visuals for movies, video games and more. Some animators specialize in particular types of visual media, like computer-generated images (CGI) or video game graphics. Salaries vary but can reach nearly $100,000 annually. Job growth is average at around 4 percent per year.  

Graphic Designer 

A graphic designer may work in publishing, advertising or design services. They combine skills in visual art and computer software to communicate creative ideas that can sell products, share information or brand an organization. The opportunities for specialization within the field of graphic design are many; some design book covers, while others create brand logos or brochure layouts. Salaries are typically around $60,000 annually for graphic designers, although amounts can vary based on experience and one’s place of employment.  

Freelance Artist 

The craft opportunities for a freelance artist are widely varied. Freelance artists may engage in creative pursuits as unique as crocheting, glassblowing or sculpting. Some sell their work at craft fairs or receive commissions, while others display their work in galleries or sell it through dealers. Many have at least one other job to support their career as a freelance artist, so salaries are extremely variable. 

Interior Designer 

Interior designers craft beautiful and functional indoor spaces, usually working with particular clients to complete a task. They work closely with architects, engineers and construction workers to ensure that their work abides by building regulations and architectural blueprints. In addition, they can use their own hand-drawn or computer-assisted designs to guide their interior work. Typically, interior designers earn around $62,000 annually and can expect average levels of job growth over the next decade.  

Photographer 

A photographer may be self-employed, or they may work for a photography studio or in publishing and advertising. Whatever their work environment, photographers utilize various types of equipment to capture moments in time. Many operate their own businesses, specializing in a particular type of photography, such as wedding, newborn, or portrait. Since individual photographers’ rates vary greatly, there is no specific salary that a photographer can make. However, many who are employed by others make around $40,000 annually.  

Art Curator 

An art curator makes sure that collections of art, whether owned by an individual or an institution, are well-preserved and organized, as well as displayed. Many work for museums, where they may select pieces to be displayed, organize themed exhibits or give gallery talks. They often have the opportunity to work with other museum staff and interact with visitors. Art curators must be interested in general art topics and especially art history. They typically earn about $57,000 annually.  

Art Therapist 

Art therapists help clients cope with emotional challenges and address life issues with the help of the creative process. These professionals must have an in-depth knowledge of both art and psychology, as well as possessing skills in listening, communication and empathy. Their job is to work as part of a client’s treatment team by engaging them in artistic reflection that can often represent some aspects of a client’s emotional life. Art therapists typically make a salary between $30,000 and $80,000 annually, with most earning closer to $50,000.  

Medical Illustrator 

Medical illustrators are another type of professional with knowledge of more than one field. In addition to their artistic skills, they must also possess a strong scientific foundation. Many medical illustrators work for medical institutions, where they help produce visuals for textbooks, patient education and even computer graphic programs. Salaries for medical illustrators can range from $83,000 all the way to over $150,000. There are very few trained professionals in the world.  

Concordia Nebraska’s art department is a community of designers and visual artists dedicated to innovation, artistic integrity, and academic excellence. The opportunities for artists on campus are many, and students will graduate from art programs at Concordia with a competitive profile and skills as well as an understanding of their own callings and vocation. Learn more about applying to one of Concordia’s art programs here.