6 answers
Charles
Student
1
Question
Asked
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I want to an artist, what is a good pathway to start following my dream profession?
I am in High School and I want to a an artist, I like drawing and I am good at it. How can I start a path to be a future artist?
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6 answers
Tiffanie Rand (Lampasona), CDR, CIR
Recruiter
94
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Tiffanie’s Answer
Hi Charles,
There are lots of good answers above about how you can pursue your career in art but I'd add Fiverr as an option. Fiverr is a platform that allows you to sell your products or have others ask you to make them things, commission your work. It's a pretty cool site. So if someone wants a painting of their dog they could ask you to do it via the site. You have to prepare a portfolio to share in advance.
Aside from that you can go to an art school, take art classes, and always keep learning!
Best of luck in your career.
https://www.fiverr.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc-brand&utm_campaign=G_US_Brand_BrandingDeskTop_Exact&utm_term=one-fiverr_(exact)&utm_content=AdID^549600552450^Keyword^fiverr^Placement^^Device^c&caid=731898203&agid=43879774452&ad_id=549600552450&kw=fiverr&lpcat=br_general&show_join=true&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiA1p28BhCBARIsADP9HrOiAwQsDnPZEUJcPLs4IH3GztsG0DDIrMG9zVCXVaZgo959MacfaYgaAsy9EALw_wcB
There are lots of good answers above about how you can pursue your career in art but I'd add Fiverr as an option. Fiverr is a platform that allows you to sell your products or have others ask you to make them things, commission your work. It's a pretty cool site. So if someone wants a painting of their dog they could ask you to do it via the site. You have to prepare a portfolio to share in advance.
Aside from that you can go to an art school, take art classes, and always keep learning!
Best of luck in your career.
https://www.fiverr.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc-brand&utm_campaign=G_US_Brand_BrandingDeskTop_Exact&utm_term=one-fiverr_(exact)&utm_content=AdID^549600552450^Keyword^fiverr^Placement^^Device^c&caid=731898203&agid=43879774452&ad_id=549600552450&kw=fiverr&lpcat=br_general&show_join=true&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiA1p28BhCBARIsADP9HrOiAwQsDnPZEUJcPLs4IH3GztsG0DDIrMG9zVCXVaZgo959MacfaYgaAsy9EALw_wcB
Morris Burns
18
Answers
Updated
Morris’s Answer
Like Warren said, make your art and KEEP making it! You have to be consistent and show your growth. People love following the artist's creative journey and you'll have to be determined to push through the early adversity when people may not care about your art as much. Also, find your local mural arts or community arts collective and start to network. Learning about the art world around you in real-time is the best teacher.
Warren Irwin
I am a P.E. teacher who is certified to teach art.
24
Answers
Metairie, Louisiana
Updated
Warren’s Answer
If you make art, you're already an artist. Whether or not that can be your career is unfortunately not up to you. You'll have to make something that hits and then make a lot of it, and there's no guarantee that will ever happen. It could, but the odds are always against us. Just make as much art as you can with the specific intention of getting it shown. While you're not working, view as much art as you can that is hanging in places where you would like your art to show. It will take many years of immersing yourself in this lifestyle before you start to figure out how it works. The toughest part is that there is just no formula for success. If you make art, you're an artist.
Kim Matthews
Graphic Production Designer and Sculptor
30
Answers
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Hello Charles,
To Mr . Constantine's answer I'd add establishing routines. School will give your day a lot of structure, but developing an artistic discipline outside of school and establishing the habits of a studio practice will let you know if you're cut out for an artist's life. This would include researching contemporary and historic artists, media, or subjects related to the kinds of work you're interested in exploring, collecting reference material, visiting galleries and museums, and reading books and blogs related to your interests such as Betty Edwards' Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain, which hones creativity skills as well as drawing. It's important that you do something related to your artistic goals every day, even if it's just sweeping your workspace.
Most of us fine artists have to support ourselves doing things outside of our discipline. If you can find work that helps you build strategic relationships, like working in a gallery, art supply store, museum, or frame shop, that can help. But the priority is to find work that pays enough for you to live and leaves you with enough energy so you can pursue your dreams and work in your studio regularly--daily if possible.
As for "paths," everyone has to make their own, so take what advice makes sense to you and leave the rest. As a real-life example, I didn't have any client work today, so I looked for jobs, then spent the afternoon working on my latest sculpture while listening to presentations on sculptor Eva Hesse, whose work is very important to mine. Some days I work on business stuff, like applying for exhibitions or shows, researching galleries, or tax preparation. You have to learn how to be focused and manage your time well because there will be many demands.
Hope this helps!
To Mr . Constantine's answer I'd add establishing routines. School will give your day a lot of structure, but developing an artistic discipline outside of school and establishing the habits of a studio practice will let you know if you're cut out for an artist's life. This would include researching contemporary and historic artists, media, or subjects related to the kinds of work you're interested in exploring, collecting reference material, visiting galleries and museums, and reading books and blogs related to your interests such as Betty Edwards' Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain, which hones creativity skills as well as drawing. It's important that you do something related to your artistic goals every day, even if it's just sweeping your workspace.
Most of us fine artists have to support ourselves doing things outside of our discipline. If you can find work that helps you build strategic relationships, like working in a gallery, art supply store, museum, or frame shop, that can help. But the priority is to find work that pays enough for you to live and leaves you with enough energy so you can pursue your dreams and work in your studio regularly--daily if possible.
As for "paths," everyone has to make their own, so take what advice makes sense to you and leave the rest. As a real-life example, I didn't have any client work today, so I looked for jobs, then spent the afternoon working on my latest sculpture while listening to presentations on sculptor Eva Hesse, whose work is very important to mine. Some days I work on business stuff, like applying for exhibitions or shows, researching galleries, or tax preparation. You have to learn how to be focused and manage your time well because there will be many demands.
Hope this helps!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 🡆 Optimization Of Human Performance: jim.frangos@gmail
6881
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Charles!
Pathway to Becoming an Artist
1. Develop Your Skills To start your journey as an artist, it is essential to continuously develop your drawing skills. This can be achieved through regular practice and experimentation with different styles and mediums. Consider taking art classes at your high school or enrolling in online courses that focus on drawing techniques, color theory, and composition. Websites like Skillshare or Coursera offer a variety of art courses that can help you refine your skills.
2. Build a Portfolio As you create more artwork, begin compiling a portfolio that showcases your best pieces. A strong portfolio is crucial for applying to art schools or internships later on. Include a variety of works that demonstrate your range and versatility, such as sketches, finished pieces, and any projects you’ve completed during classes or independently.
3. Seek Feedback Feedback from peers, teachers, or professional artists can provide valuable insights into your work. Join local art clubs or online communities where you can share your artwork and receive constructive criticism. Platforms like DeviantArt or ArtStation are great for connecting with other artists and getting feedback on your work.
4. Explore Different Mediums While you may have a preference for drawing, exploring other mediums such as painting, digital art, sculpture, or mixed media can enhance your artistic abilities and broaden your creative horizons. Experimenting with different materials will help you discover what resonates with you the most.
5. Attend Workshops and Art Events Participating in workshops led by experienced artists can provide hands-on experience and new techniques that can elevate your work. Additionally, attending art exhibitions and events allows you to network with other artists and gain inspiration from their work.
6. Consider Formal Education After high school, consider pursuing a degree in fine arts or a related field at an accredited college or university. Formal education can provide structured learning experiences, access to experienced instructors, and opportunities for networking within the art community.
7. Create an Online Presence In today’s digital age, having an online presence is vital for aspiring artists. Create social media accounts dedicated to showcasing your artwork (such as Instagram or TikTok) and consider building a personal website to display your portfolio professionally. This will help you reach a wider audience and potentially attract clients or galleries interested in your work.
8. Stay Inspired Continuously seek inspiration from various sources such as books, nature, music, films, and other artists’ works. Keeping a sketchbook handy for jotting down ideas or practicing daily sketches can also help maintain creativity.
9. Set Goals Establish short-term and long-term goals for yourself as an artist. Whether it’s completing a certain number of artworks per month or applying to specific galleries or shows by the end of the year, having clear objectives will keep you motivated on your artistic journey.
By following these steps diligently while remaining open to learning and growth throughout the process, you’ll be well on your way toward achieving your dream of becoming an artist.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used
1. National Endowment for the Arts (NEA)
The NEA provides comprehensive resources about careers in the arts including educational pathways and funding opportunities for aspiring artists.
2. College Board - Big Future: Careers in Art & Design
This source offers detailed information about various career paths in art along with educational requirements necessary for those careers.
3. The Art Career Project
This platform outlines different artistic professions along with guidance on how to pursue them effectively through education and skill development.
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|==========================God Bless You, Richly!==========================|
|===========================James Constantine===========================|
|===================THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN==================|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|============================~ Since 1972!==============================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Pathway to Becoming an Artist
1. Develop Your Skills To start your journey as an artist, it is essential to continuously develop your drawing skills. This can be achieved through regular practice and experimentation with different styles and mediums. Consider taking art classes at your high school or enrolling in online courses that focus on drawing techniques, color theory, and composition. Websites like Skillshare or Coursera offer a variety of art courses that can help you refine your skills.
2. Build a Portfolio As you create more artwork, begin compiling a portfolio that showcases your best pieces. A strong portfolio is crucial for applying to art schools or internships later on. Include a variety of works that demonstrate your range and versatility, such as sketches, finished pieces, and any projects you’ve completed during classes or independently.
3. Seek Feedback Feedback from peers, teachers, or professional artists can provide valuable insights into your work. Join local art clubs or online communities where you can share your artwork and receive constructive criticism. Platforms like DeviantArt or ArtStation are great for connecting with other artists and getting feedback on your work.
4. Explore Different Mediums While you may have a preference for drawing, exploring other mediums such as painting, digital art, sculpture, or mixed media can enhance your artistic abilities and broaden your creative horizons. Experimenting with different materials will help you discover what resonates with you the most.
5. Attend Workshops and Art Events Participating in workshops led by experienced artists can provide hands-on experience and new techniques that can elevate your work. Additionally, attending art exhibitions and events allows you to network with other artists and gain inspiration from their work.
6. Consider Formal Education After high school, consider pursuing a degree in fine arts or a related field at an accredited college or university. Formal education can provide structured learning experiences, access to experienced instructors, and opportunities for networking within the art community.
7. Create an Online Presence In today’s digital age, having an online presence is vital for aspiring artists. Create social media accounts dedicated to showcasing your artwork (such as Instagram or TikTok) and consider building a personal website to display your portfolio professionally. This will help you reach a wider audience and potentially attract clients or galleries interested in your work.
8. Stay Inspired Continuously seek inspiration from various sources such as books, nature, music, films, and other artists’ works. Keeping a sketchbook handy for jotting down ideas or practicing daily sketches can also help maintain creativity.
9. Set Goals Establish short-term and long-term goals for yourself as an artist. Whether it’s completing a certain number of artworks per month or applying to specific galleries or shows by the end of the year, having clear objectives will keep you motivated on your artistic journey.
By following these steps diligently while remaining open to learning and growth throughout the process, you’ll be well on your way toward achieving your dream of becoming an artist.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used
1. National Endowment for the Arts (NEA)
The NEA provides comprehensive resources about careers in the arts including educational pathways and funding opportunities for aspiring artists.
2. College Board - Big Future: Careers in Art & Design
This source offers detailed information about various career paths in art along with educational requirements necessary for those careers.
3. The Art Career Project
This platform outlines different artistic professions along with guidance on how to pursue them effectively through education and skill development.
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|==========================God Bless You, Richly!==========================|
|===========================James Constantine===========================|
|===================THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN==================|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|============================~ Since 1972!==============================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Marisa G.
UX / UI Designer
4
Answers
Ventura, California
Updated
Marisa’s Answer
Hi Charles,
I’m thrilled for you! Pursuing art and exploring design is an incredibly rewarding path. I’d love to share some things that have helped me tremendously along the way.
First, keep taking art classes—especially in-person ones, as they’re incredibly valuable. When I was in high school, I started attending art classes at the local community college and adult continuing education programs in my area. This is a great time for you to experiment with different mediums. The more you explore, the clearer your direction will become as you discover the types of art you truly love to create.
Something I do now—and wish I had started sooner—is reaching out to people whose work I admire to ask for a brief 15–30 minute informational interview. During these conversations, I ask questions like:
• What do you enjoy most about your work?
• What training or experiences would you recommend for someone starting out?
• What challenges do you face in your work?
• Where does most of your income come from?
You might also consider connecting with local artists whose work inspires you. Building these relationships can provide invaluable insights and guidance.
There are so many potential paths for someone with strong drawing skills. A few that come to mind include illustration, graphic design, architecture, automotive design, animation, and so many more.
To sum up:
• Continue developing your craft.
• Experiment with different mediums and discover what excites you.
• Reach out to people whose work you admire to learn from their experiences.
Remember, it’s a journey. Trust your curiosity and intuition, they’ll guide you in the right direction!
Wishing you the best,
Marisa
I’m thrilled for you! Pursuing art and exploring design is an incredibly rewarding path. I’d love to share some things that have helped me tremendously along the way.
First, keep taking art classes—especially in-person ones, as they’re incredibly valuable. When I was in high school, I started attending art classes at the local community college and adult continuing education programs in my area. This is a great time for you to experiment with different mediums. The more you explore, the clearer your direction will become as you discover the types of art you truly love to create.
Something I do now—and wish I had started sooner—is reaching out to people whose work I admire to ask for a brief 15–30 minute informational interview. During these conversations, I ask questions like:
• What do you enjoy most about your work?
• What training or experiences would you recommend for someone starting out?
• What challenges do you face in your work?
• Where does most of your income come from?
You might also consider connecting with local artists whose work inspires you. Building these relationships can provide invaluable insights and guidance.
There are so many potential paths for someone with strong drawing skills. A few that come to mind include illustration, graphic design, architecture, automotive design, animation, and so many more.
To sum up:
• Continue developing your craft.
• Experiment with different mediums and discover what excites you.
• Reach out to people whose work you admire to learn from their experiences.
Remember, it’s a journey. Trust your curiosity and intuition, they’ll guide you in the right direction!
Wishing you the best,
Marisa