What does an artist do?
The responsibilities of any working artist are highly specific to the requirements and demands of their medium and the industry they work in. When working as an artist, some of your daily duties may include: working on client briefs, providing quotes on creative content, generating material and ideas for specific projects, advising clients on industry specific trends and keeping a strong administrative process if you are a freelancer.
Tasks:
- Providing job specific quotes
- Creatively liaising with prospective employers
- Meeting job deadlines
- Generating a portfolio of work
- Creating a body of work
What skills do I need to be an artist?
Being an artist in any medium requires a strong ability to communicate with all manner of people, from prospective employers, collaborators and commissioning clients. Many aspects of the creative industry and the creative process demand the need to be able to listen to and understand what other people require and the ability to properly communicate your ideas. This is also coupled with the application of your skills to generating a body of creative work.
- Creative skills across a chosen medium e.g painting, sculpting, digital media
- Good communication and listening skills
- Ability to articulate ideas and speak in non technical terms
- Capable of dealing with the stress of deadlines and expectations
- Networking and meeting people for potential future employment
Specialisations
Being an artist involves a vast number of potential occupations. Depending on what you are most passionate about, you can apply and develop your skills depending on what you love doing the most.
Stills photographer
Video content producer
Performance artist
Study pathways for beauticians
Depending on your chosen medium and passion, there are a number of employment and educational options ready for you to get a head start in the booming creative industry.
Getting Started
Pick a course that is tailored to your love and passions.
Skill Building
Hone your craft during your educational period by working on your chosen specialisation.
Professional Development
Increase your chances of employment by building your portfolio and qualifications.
Industry Recognition
Industry certification is heavily reliant upon which industry you work in and the required qualifications, if any, of your chosen medium.
Getting a job after graduation
Put your training to good use and get the best professional head start in your design career. Emphasise your personal strengths and achievements in your resume and target your cover letter to the job description listed.