December 2011/January 2012 Issue - Chicano Channel Magazine

A recent news article from Salemnews.com entitled “North Shore colleges welcoming more students than ever this year” states that Montserrat College of Art in Beverly is being blessed: it has a 28 percent increase in fresh students. With this fact in mind, one could not help but answer the question: Are there really job opportunities for people with Art degrees?

Nowadays, people like to take pride in announcing their uniqueness. It seems that doing so would make them indispensable – an asset, something which needs to be valued greatly. The same adage applies to the subject of employment. Simply put, everyone wants to be valuable to a company so that the company will not make the mistake of losing that person.

So now you might be asking yourself: what is the relationship between employment and art? There is a direct relationship. The more creative you are, the more likely you are to land a job that suits your creativity. Of course, the subject of education is something that needs to be considered in this equation as well. The more learned you are about your craft, the higher the probability is that you will be a wonderful addition to a company team.

People often think of Art degree as a modifiable construct. Some say that it is all about the subject of painting, while others believe in photography. Some contend that it is regarding fashion while others opt to ride the computer graphics boat. With all these variety of concepts in mind, one thing is true: an Art degree will be able to get you a job.

Without further ado, here are the top ten jobs for an artist in 2011:

1. Commercial artist.

Being a commercial artist means that you will be tackling graphic art, computer graphics, advertising and illustrations. The employers can be the media: both print and online media serve the purpose. Magazines, newspapers, advertising agencies, and television and motion picture industry, among others, are helpful in landing an artist a job. This is perfect for someone who is meticulous and is not averse to meeting deadlines. Lay-outing of all sorts may be the main point in here, as well as computer literacy.

2. Art professor.

This is regarding the education of art. While some people may contend that art is not learned nor it is taught, one will not be able to deny that art is something which needs to be guided for it to blossom fully. Thus said, being an Art professor is perfect for artists who wish to influence other artists. A certification is required. In some cases, a graduate degree is necessary, too. Find your passion and venture into a field of specialization. Patience and lots of knowledge are the main points in this area.

3. Museum tour guide.

Museums and art galleries are gems which require unravelling. Such unravelling can be done with the help of an insightful tour guide. Do an internship in art museums and soak up all the art history. Take the ride and get a field of specialization. The main points here are wonderful intrapersonal and interpersonal communication and enthusiasm.

4. Photographer.

Institutions require an excellent photographer to be able to capture their glorious moments. Such institutions like hospitals, museums, galleries, libraries and advertising agencies can be a photographer’s employer. Apprenticeship is necessary for the learning experience that is required of this job opportunity. Having a portfolio will help you land a wonderful job, too. Remember that your portfolio should be able to represent your style in a variety of manners. An objective eye is the main point in photography.

5. Interior designer.

More often than not, professional help is sought whenever styling of a major institution is needed to be done. Residential firms, pattern companies and interior design departments are potential employers to an interior designer. This is an area wherein a great portfolio will also come in handy. Apprenticeship is vital in this regard, too, as people often prefer experts with valuable experiences. The subject of education is important, too, as sometimes, a certification or a certain degree is needed to be able to freely venture this area. Great communication skills and a sense of balance are the main points here.

6. Art salesperson.

Most galleries, museums, specialty stores and auction houses require an outstanding salesperson to be able to guarantee an immediate sale. It is fundamental to have both a sales experience and a business minor in this area to be considered credible. Computer literacy is also a skill that will be valued by your employers because of the fact that due to the technology today, some sales can be conducted online. Establish a great line of contacts and treat them as your friends. An engaging personality and a knack for networking are the main points if you ever decide to be an art salesperson.

7. Fine artist.

If ever you have considered being self-employed while focusing on your art, then this is the area for you. Shared studios, school programs, historic sites and community programs can be your employers, too. It is fundamental here that you maintain your contacts and continually expose yourself to others by doing volunteering, internship and apprenticeship. While these are happening, though, it is advisable to consider having a source of supplemental income, too. The supplemental income is needed so that you will have funds allocated to investing in your education and in your experience to continuously improve your skills. Networking and dedication are the main points in this area.

8. Art therapist.

With the increasing popularity of alternative treatments, an art therapist will most likely be able to get a job. Potential employers like hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers and mental health facilities implement art therapy. This is a promising career for artists who want to be able to heal through art. This area requires trainings specifically focused on art therapy. A master’s degree in art therapy is important, too. A counselling mind and a yearning for healing are the main points in art therapy.

9. Art journalist.

Art is an expression. Art is more than just graphics and visual representations. It can also be expressed in terms of words, too. Expressing something need not to be limited in a graphical container. An aspiring art journalist should also do apprenticeship, internship and volunteering at corporate media departments, non-profit agencies, advertising firms, publishing houses and art-related publications to be able to have a rich supply of experience. Computer literacy is vital. A background on photography is a basic skill, too. An additional curriculum with courses in journalism or broadcasting media can prove to be helpful. An endless source of ideas and a passion for writing are the main points if you will venture this area.

10. Fashion artist.

Bring out the fashion police in you! Be a volunteer, an intern or an apprentice at a production firm in order to gain first-hand experience. Participate in school productions and indulge yourself in being the one responsible for concept of costumes. Or if you are really excited about it, take part in the production of the costumes, as well. Another helpful step is joining fashion contests in magazines and in online fashion websites. Learn to be able to network. Remember that people will not be able to appreciate your work unless they appreciate you first. Perseverance and an eye for detail are the main points in being a successful fashion artist.

Now that you are aware of the endless possibilities that an Art degree can offer you, it is often wise to begin by educating yourself first. Gaining education and experience simultaneously is applicable, as well. Join professional art organizations, always invest in your education and learn to network. Having a wonderful career takes a lot of hard work, patience, dedication, perseverance, patience, some luck and passion.