Skip to the main content
Go to the search page
Artists create artistic works using appropriate techniques, materials and media; design artwork and illustrations; and restore damaged pieces of art.

Main tasks

  • Produces works on commission basis for clients.
  • Markets and sells finished work directly to customers.
  • Liaises with writers and publishers to produce book illustrations.
  • Uses artistic skills to restore damaged artworks.
  • Approaches managers of galleries and exhibitions in order to get finished work displayed.
  • Builds up composition into finished work by carving, sculpting, etching, painting, engraving, drawing, etc..
  • Prepares sketches, scale drawings or colour schemes.
  • Selects appropriate materials, medium and method.
  • Conceives and develops ideas and ways of working for artistic composition.

Source: Office for National Statistics.

Salary and earnings

Potential earnings

£64,650.85

Average earnings

£34,571.20

Source: Office for National Statistics' Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE).

Skills & knowledge

The top 5 most important skills and knowledge requirements relevant to this career.

Active Learning

Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

Active Listening

Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Critical Thinking

Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Speaking

Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Reading Comprehension

Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Fine Arts

Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.

Design

Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.

Sales and Marketing

Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.

Customer and Personal Service

Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.

English Language

Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

What course level do I need to study?

The level of study required will vary with each job, sector and company. The table below shows the level of study achieved by those currently working in this career choice.

Educational requirements: Level 4 NVQ; Intermediate, DipHE, DipFE

Source: Office for National Statistics.

Level of study Percentage achieved
Level 0 1%
Level 1 6%
Level 2 4%
Level 3 10%
Level 4-5 (Higher Education) 3%
Level 6 (Bachelors) 51%
Level 7 (Masters or equivalent) 25%
Level 8 (Doctorate) 1%

Source: Labour Force Survey (LFS) data.

Economic data for careers is provided by Lightcast and also available through our Career Coach app. Job postings, employment and earnings information is represented at the regional level for the East Midlands.