For many people, a career as an artist is a dream. Whether you want to work as a craft artist (like a potter or sculptor) or a fine artist (like a painter or photographer), an art degree can help make your dreams a reality. Many art programs offer internships or apprenticeship opportunities for students. Those opportunities give you real-world experience and are an excellent way to build your portfolio.
You’ll learn a lot
Art is a broad subject, and while you may have a specific medium in mind for your degree program, it’s essential to keep an open mind as you study. You’ll learn to hone your research skills (primarily if you pursue a history of art degree), develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, gain proficiency in new techniques and processes, and more. This can help you in various careers beyond art, including translation, travel and tourism, civil service, policy analysis, heritage work, cultural tour consulting or guiding, and more. Additionally, suppose you’re working as an artist. In that case, you’ll likely get to know a lot of other artists and art students in your program who can provide valuable networking and career opportunities. Studying art at a school like Academy of Art University can create a tight-knit community of scholars who learn together and socialize after class. You’ll develop a network of like-minded individuals, particularly helpful when you need extra support in your artistic pursuits.
You’ll be able to express yourself
If you’re looking for an outlet for your emotions, art is a great way to express yourself. You can explore your feelings through painting, drawing, sculpting, music, dance, or writing. Whether you’re feeling happy, sad, or angry, creating art is a cathartic experience that can help you release those feelings. Creating self-expressive art can also help you understand yourself better. You may discover new depths to your thinking that you didn’t realize existed. For example, creating art about your innermost feelings could help you uncover secrets hiding from you for a long time. While an art degree will open many doors, pursuing a career in the arts is optional. Ultimately, your talent and work ethic will determine your success more than the fact that you’re an art graduate. Nevertheless, earning an art degree can give you the confidence and skills to advance your career. Some careers, such as fashion design and graphic art, don’t require a degree.
You’ll be creative
The art field is broad, which means you can do anything from creating video games to sewing. This translates well to the workplace and shows employers that you have the skills to reach deadlines. Besides, you’ll learn to think creatively to find new ways of doing things. Most art degree-holders work as freelance artists and can choose to pursue various professional avenues. Some also go down the entrepreneurial route and start their own companies. Others decide to get a master’s degree and teach at the college level. Despite the challenges, a degree in visual arts still offers an invaluable education. It teaches you to be adaptable, flexible, and creative – all skills that are in high demand in today’s world. Besides, expressing yourself through the art medium is always worth it!
You’ll have fun
For many creative types, an art career is the only thing they can imagine doing. While some people might discourage would-be artists from pursuing their dreams because of the low salaries they typically start with, building a successful career in this field is possible if you have the talent and dedication. It may be more challenging than completing a degree in business or engineering, but it will be worth it in the long run.
An art career is also very flexible. The tools you need to practice your craft, such as paint, brushes, and paper, can fit into a shoulder bag, making it easy to work anywhere. This freedom and flexibility can be very satisfying for many people. Suppose you’re considering pursuing an Arts Degree. In that case, choosing a program with teachers with thriving artistic practices and extensive experience in academia and art-making is essential. These teachers can help you develop and take your training to the next level, which is the most valuable skill in this industry.
You’ll be rewarded
Art is often criticized for being less than lucrative in salary, and careers involving the skills may have below-average job outlooks. However, if you’re in it for the love of the medium and want to make a living from your creative talents, there are options – some of which require no college education! While working for yourself can be challenging, the rewards are substantial for those who make it work. Besides the self-satisfaction of creating and doing what you love each day, you’ll also be able to enjoy flexible hours, a built-in creative outlet, and the freedom to pursue your passion. Many art programs also offer internships, apprenticeships, or work-integrated learning opportunities that allow you to gain industry experience while still a student. This can help you build your resume and give you an edge over other candidates. Plus, you’ll have an opportunity to network with people who could help you further your career as a professional artist. These contacts can be precious in the long run, especially when launching your freelance career!
