The idea of being an artist always seems unreal; like a dream, that’s only in books and movies. But being a visual artist can become a reality for anyone passionate about pursuing a career in art full-time.
There is so much opportunity out there, all you need to do is seek it out. And fortunately, there’s a way to do that which you can discover in this ultimate guide!
Let’s dive into the best path you can take to fulfill your wildest dreams when it comes to visual art.
Observe
First, you need to make sure you’re taking in art well. Just as a good writer must also be a good reader, a good artist must have good observational skills when it comes to looking at art.
You can practice good observation as an artist by going to museums, and going to as many as you can. It’s a great idea to take a look at the type of art that you’d like to create and learn from the best.
You should also observe some art that isn’t familiar to you, to develop a well-rounded perspective.
Play
Next comes experimenting with different types of art. As a visual artist, there are so many mediums that you can test out to see what sparks the most interest in you.
If you like to draw or paint, find out how to use watercolor pencils to make beautiful watercolor pencil drawings. Or learn the best strategy for using oil paints to create vibrant works.
If you like sculpting, explore what it might be like using different materials like rock, wood, or clay. There are so many different elements of visual art that are worth giving a shot, so don’t be afraid to try something new.
Learn
Getting an education isn’t always a requirement when becoming an artist, but it would never hurt to do some learning! Art schools are out there to help you hone your craft with professional advice.
Not only that but you get the opportunity of a lifetime to study what you love. So, if you have the opportunity, it may be worth it to look into some art colleges or universities with great art programs.
You also can learn from pop-up classes that may happen at your nearest art museum or your community center. You don’t necessarily have to go to a school to learn more about creating art.
Explore
Exploring your options as an artist will always help you get a leg up when it comes to making it as a visual artist. This can come in many different ways.
If you’re in school or pursuing school, you can and should explore by looking into programs that offer you more. Studying abroad can expose you to a country and culture that values art in new ways and brings a fresh perspective to you.
When you have the chance, check out your options to attend special exhibitions in museums near you.
Practice
Then, you have to practice. At an art college or university, you get tons of opportunities to practice your work in classes for homework or tests.
But if you don’t have the time or money to go to school, you should make an effort to practice your art on your own time. Working on something every day is bound to make your work better regardless of whether or not you’re taking classes for it.
The famous slogan of “practice makes perfect” is certainly true, from practicing a sport to making the perfect artistic masterpiece.
Research
Once you’ve gotten the hang of your artistic craft, it’s time to start looking for opportunities to make it your full-time job. But that means that it’s time to do some of the tedious work: research.
Finding work isn’t even that easy if you’re just looking for a survival job, so you need to prepare to buckle down and dig deep. Set notifications for job sites and look into what kinds of jobs might be right for you.
There are tons of jobs for artists depending on the kind of work that excites you. From a makeup artist to an industrial designer, there is an occupation out there for you.
Apply
When you have found a job that interests you, it’s time to apply and go for it! This requires a knowledge of career preparedness, like having a good resume and interview skills.
These are the kinds of things you can learn from friends and also from teachers. And if you’re hoping for a residency or fine art job, often you’ll need a portfolio.
Creating a portfolio will take a lot of time and energy because you’ll want to put your best foot (and art) forward. It’s a good idea to get another set of eyes on your projects before putting them together.
Network
Finally, there’s just a little more business that comes to art that you’ll want to nail. That’s networking.
It also can seem like a hassle, but it truly is a great way to move up in the art world. Making connections with artists and people who give artists opportunities can make a big difference in your future.
This can be made easier when you do smaller things like making a Linkedin or by making business cards. It’s a small investment that can make an important impact by connecting you with important contacts.
Live Your Dreams as a Visual Artist
Now you’ve got a comprehensive guide on how to make it as a visual artist. Whether it’s through making watercolor pencil art or the most intricate tapestries, you’ll be able to market your skills well.
So what are you waiting for? Start practicing, apply to that school, and begin exploring the world of opportunity that is out there for passionate artists.
It’s never too late to start living your dream, and it’s always the right time to take the next step.
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