Artists create art to communicate ideas, thoughts, or feelings. They use a variety of methods - painting, sculpting, or illustration - and an assortment of materials, including oils, watercolors, acrylics, pastels, pencils, pen and ink, plaster, clay, and computers. Artists' works may be realistic, stylized, or abstract and may depict objects, people, nature, or events.

Earning a living as an artist is a dream job for many people because they get to spend their days being creative. Also, a large number of artists are self-employed. This makes the profession even more appealing, and competition for both salaried and freelance work is tough. Art students have a large spectrum of options in front of them, ranging from working in art studios, advertising companies, publishing houses, fashion houses etc.

Many artists work in fine- or commercial-art studios located in office buildings, warehouses, or lofts. Others work in private studios in their homes. Some fine artists share studio space, where they also may exhibit their work.

Training:
Artists usually develop their skills through a bachelor’s degree program or other postsecondary training in art or design. Training is preferred for most artist specialties. Many colleges and universities offer programs leading to the bachelor’s or master’s degree in fine arts. Courses usually include core subjects such as English, social science, and natural science, in addition to art history and studio art

Earnings:
Earnings for self-employed artists vary widely; some well-established artists earn more than salaried artists, while others find it difficult to rely solely on income earned from selling art. Median annual earnings of salaried fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators, were $38,060.

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