Fine artist
Create original works of art for people to buy and enjoy in their homes, workplaces and public spaces.
Also known as: sculptor, printmaker, painter, experimental film-maker, contemporary artist

About the job
Salary is variable
Salary for this job can depend on things such as demand, location and your experience.
A day in the life – Fine artist
What it's like
You'd create original works of art for people to buy and enjoy in their homes, workplaces and public spaces.
You could use a variety of artistic methods such as:
painting
drawing
sculpture
engraving
printmaking
media, such as film or computer graphics
You'd work from your own ideas, or receive commissions from individuals or organisations, to create a piece of art.
You’d spend time researching subjects, materials and new artistic techniques such as creating ceramics using 3D printing. You’ll need a good appreciation of colour and shape. It’s important that you are self-motivated and determined.
To promote your work you'd arrange displays in galleries and exhibitions and online.
You could sell your work yourself, through an agent or through galleries, exhibitions, shops, craft markets and fairs.
You’d need to build up contacts with agents, dealers and gallery owners to help market your work. You'd also attend exhibitions and join artists’ groups.
You might also do other work such as:
being an ‘artist in residence’ and running classes and workshops in places such as schools, prisons or hospitals
offering private art classes, or teaching in colleges and community education courses
running local art projects
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Top skills
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Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- creative
- designing
- researching
- networking
- attention to detail
- developing a plan
- self esteem
- taking initiative

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Getting in
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