Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators

Median salary, education path, job outlook, and related careers — based on U.S. labor data.

What a Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators does

Fine artists create original artwork using various media and techniques to express ideas, emotions, or observations. They may work in painting, sculpture, illustration, or other visual forms, selling through galleries, commissions, or exhibitions.

Education & path

The typical entry point is a associate degree. About 2 years.

Estimated cost of that path: ~$7,500. Estimated payback: ~1 year. Estimates only — actual cost varies widely by school and financial aid; payback assumes ~20% of income applied.

Related careers

• Graphic Designers — $62,960/yr
• Merchandise Displayers and Window Trimmers — $39,390/yr
• Interior Designers — $67,190/yr
• Audio and Video Technicians — $58,100/yr
• Art Directors — $114,850/yr