Professional Artist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of creativity, the focus on professional artists has never been sharper.

Artistic expression evolves, and with each transformation, the demand for skilled individuals who can create, enhance, and communicate visually captivating concepts escalates.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a professional artist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker attempting to grasp the core of this role,
• A hiring manager constructing the profile of the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the inner dynamics of professional artistry,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable professional artist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Professional Artist Duties and Responsibilities

Professional Artists utilize their creative talents and technical skills to produce original works of art in various forms.

They may work in various mediums such as paint, clay, wood, or digital software.

The duties and responsibilities of a Professional Artist include:

• Creating original pieces of artwork, using a variety of mediums, based on client specifications or personal inspiration
• Exhibiting work in galleries, museums, or private collections, as well as online platforms
• Selling artwork through direct sales, art shows, galleries, or online platforms
• Networking with potential clients, gallery owners, and other artists to generate business opportunities
• Applying for grants and submitting work to competitions to earn recognition and financial support for artistic projects
• Staying updated with latest trends, techniques, and technologies related to art and incorporating them into work when necessary
• Collaborating with other artists or professionals for large scale projects or exhibitions
• Managing financial aspects of art business, including tracking income and expenses, negotiating contracts, and setting prices for artwork
• Maintaining a portfolio showcasing the range and quality of work for potential clients or employers

 

Professional Artist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a skilled and imaginative professional artist to interpret our clients’ needs and to design solutions with high visual impact.

The artist will work on a variety of products, including exhibitions, merchandise, corporate identity, etc.

Your role as a professional artist is to use your artistic creativity to communicate ideas, inform consumers, and solve problems, whilst adhering to budgets and deadlines.

 

Responsibilities

• Create and design various materials for print and digital collateral
• Use your artistic abilities to communicate ideas, tell a story, or sell a product
• Manage and produce art exhibitions and displays
• Work with clients to determine project needs and budget
• Work with a wide range of media, including photography and computer-aided design
• Review final productions for errors and ensure that final prints reflect client specifications
• Keep up-to-date with industry trends, tools and software
• Collaborate with a team of creative professionals to produce a final product

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a professional artist or illustrator
• Strong artistic skills, including drawing, painting, and digital art
• Proficiency in design software, such as Adobe Creative Suite
• A strong eye for visual composition, color and detail
• Ability to meet deadlines and collaborate with a team
• Understanding of marketing, production, website design, corporate identity, advertisements, and multimedia design
• Excellent communication skills
• Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts or related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Professional Artist
• Work Environment: Studio setting with flexible work hours. Some travel may be required for art shows, client meetings, or exhibitions.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Creative Director or Art Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $50,000 minimum to $100,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time or Freelance
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, portfolio of your work, and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Professional Artist Do?

Professional Artists create art to express their thoughts, feelings, and ideas.

They may work with a variety of mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, digital art, or mixed media.

Artists may work independently or collaborate with others to create pieces of art.

They spend a lot of their time in studios, where they produce their work, often alone.

They might also work as part of a team in a creative agency or in roles such as illustrators, graphic designers, or art directors.

They conceptualize and create original pieces of art, whether it be painting a portrait, sculpting an object, or creating a digital illustration.

This involves using their understanding of colors, textures, and light to create compelling visuals.

Professional Artists also prepare and present their portfolio to potential clients, gallery owners, and art competitions.

They may also be involved in marketing and selling their artwork, either independently or through galleries.

Many artists also take on commissioned work, creating custom pieces for clients.

This requires the ability to interpret and execute the client’s vision while maintaining their own artistic style.

Furthermore, they often engage in continuous learning, researching new techniques, and staying updated on trends in the art world.

Some artists also conduct workshops and classes to share their expertise and skills with others.

 

Professional Artist Qualifications and Skills

A professional artist should possess a unique blend of creativity, technical skills, and personal attributes.

These skills include:

• Artistic talent and creativity to create visually appealing pieces of work that captivate the attention of viewers and communicate various concepts.
• Technical skills in using various art tools and materials, including brushes, sculpting tools, software applications, and more.
• Observational skills to draw or create art from real objects, people or landscapes, and to observe the details, shadows, and lights.
• Critical thinking and interpretation skills to interpret and depict different themes, emotions, and messages through their work.
• Communication skills to understand the requirements of clients or galleries and explain their work to others.
• Business skills to market their work, negotiate contracts, and manage financial matters.
• Perseverance and self-motivation to continue creating art even in the face of criticism or rejection.
• Physical stamina and dexterity, as some forms of art may require standing or making precise movements for long periods.

 

Professional Artist Experience Requirements

Budding professional artists often start their careers pursuing an undergraduate degree in fine arts or a related field, where they gain theoretical knowledge and practical experience in various artistic mediums.

Internships and apprenticeships in art studios, galleries, or museums are common ways for artists to gain hands-on experience.

This practice not only helps them to refine their skills but also to understand the business aspects of the art industry.

Artists with 1 to 2 years of experience may have a small portfolio showcasing their work.

They might have participated in local art exhibits or competitions, or may have sold some pieces of their artwork.

Those with 3 to 5 years of experience often have a more extensive portfolio and may have held solo exhibitions.

They have likely sold several pieces of work and may have built a reputation within the art community.

Artists with more than 5 years of experience have likely developed a distinctive style and strong portfolio.

They may have received recognition or awards for their work.

Artists at this level often have significant exhibition experience and may have their work represented by a gallery.

They might also have experience teaching art classes or workshops.

 

Professional Artist Education and Training Requirements

A Professional Artist typically requires a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts or a related field.

This would provide them with a well-rounded background in various art mediums and techniques.

Courses such as painting, sculpture, ceramics, drawing, and digital art provide the foundational skills and techniques necessary for an artist to hone their craft.

Art history classes provide context for the evolution of art and help artists find their unique voice and style.

In some cases, professional artists may opt to pursue a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree, which allows them to deepen their expertise in a particular medium or style.

This level of education can also provide additional opportunities such as teaching at a university level.

While formal education is beneficial, it is not always essential.

Many successful artists are self-taught and have developed their skills through years of practice and dedication.

Aside from formal education, apprenticeship under a seasoned artist can provide valuable hands-on experience and deeper understanding of the art world.

Continual learning and skill development are vital in this field.

Many artists participate in workshops, seminars, and other training opportunities to learn new techniques and keep up with current trends in the art world.

Some artists may also seek certification in specific art techniques or mediums, which can further demonstrate their skills and commitment to their craft.

It’s important to note that in the art world, a strong portfolio showcasing the artist’s style, skill, and versatility is often more important than formal qualifications.

 

Professional Artist Salary Expectations

A Professional Artist earns an average salary of $53,400 (USD) per year.

However, this can greatly vary depending on the artist’s specific discipline, level of experience, reputation, and geographical location.

Some artists may earn significantly more, especially if their work is highly sought after in the art market.

 

Professional Artist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a professional artist need?

Professional artists need to have well developed technical art skills, and should be proficient in one or more forms of art.

This may include painting, drawing, sculpture, or digital art among others.

They also need to have a good sense of creativity, vision, and originality.

Communication skills are also vital, as artists need to convey their ideas effectively.

They also need patience and perseverance as art often requires a lot of time and effort.

 

Do professional artists need a degree?

While a degree in art or a related field can be beneficial, it is not always a requirement.

Many successful artists are self-taught.

The most important thing is the quality of the artist’s portfolio, which showcases their work.

However, a degree can provide artists with a structured learning environment, and opportunities to explore different techniques and mediums.

 

What should you look for in a professional artist’s portfolio?

A professional artist’s portfolio should reflect their skills and style.

It should include their best work, showcasing a range of techniques and subjects.

Look for originality, creativity, and a consistent style or theme.

It’s also important to look for growth and development in their work.

 

What qualities make a good professional artist?

A good professional artist is creative, passionate about their work, and has a unique artistic voice.

They should be dedicated, persistent, and always striving to improve their skills.

Good artists also have a keen eye for detail, a deep understanding of their medium, and a willingness to take risks in their work.

 

Is it difficult to hire professional artists?

Hiring a professional artist can be challenging due to the subjective nature of art.

It’s important to find an artist whose style aligns with the vision of the project.

Additionally, due to the freelance nature of many artists’ careers, availability and commitment can be factors to consider.

However, with a clear project brief and thorough vetting of portfolios, it’s possible to find the right artist for the job.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of what it means to be a professional artist.

Surprised?

It’s not just about creating art.

It’s about capturing and conveying emotions, stories and ideas, one brushstroke at a time.

With our comprehensive professional artist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to get started.

But why end your journey here?

Go beyond with our job description generator. It’s your next step towards creating precise job listings or fine-tuning your art portfolio to perfection.

Remember:

Every brushstroke is part of a larger masterpiece.

Let’s create that masterpiece. Together.