How to become a fine artist, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators

Create original artwork using any of a wide variety of media and techniques.

Steps to get there

Most employers expect most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree..Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

What fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators do

• Use materials such as pens and ink, watercolors, charcoal, oil, or computer software to create artwork.
• Integrate and develop visual elements, such as line, space, mass, color, and perspective, to produce desired effects, such as the illustration of ideas, emotions, or moods.
• Confer with clients, editors, writers, art directors, and other interested parties regarding the nature and content of artwork to be produced.
• Maintain portfolios of artistic work to demonstrate styles, interests, and abilities.
• Market artwork through brochures, mailings, or Web sites.
• Study different techniques to learn how to apply them to artistic endeavors.

Skills that matter most

• Critical Thinking
• Active Learning
• Active Listening
• Reading Comprehension
• Speaking
• Writing
• Monitoring
• Learning Strategies

Is fine artist, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators a good career?

On the numbers, this job is close to the average across occupations. Median pay is 9% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

• Nevada $81,630
• New York $78,870
• Washington $72,430
• Connecticut $71,210
• Maryland $66,180

Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.