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My World of Work

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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