Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators
Fine artists create original artwork using various media including painting, sculpture, drawing, and illustration. They work in studios, galleries, educational institutions, and commercial settings, developing pieces for exhibition, sale, or client projects. This work requires technical skill, creative vision, and often involves both independent creation and collaboration with other professionals.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A fine artist's week typically involves studio time spent on their primary medium—whether painting, sculpting, or illustrating. This includes sketching concepts, refining techniques, and completing works in progress. Artists also spend time on business tasks like photographing finished pieces, communicating with galleries or clients, preparing portfolios, managing exhibitions, and often teaching or freelancing to sustain income while developing their artistic practice.
Who this work suits
Holland code ARI. Artistic work is creating and designing, with room for self-expression. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You're drawn to this work if you have strong artistic interests and enjoy creating realistic or representational work. You tend to be detail-oriented, observant about visual forms and composition, and committed to developing technical skills through practice and study. You're comfortable with independent work and self-directed learning.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oregon | $72,600 | $98,540 | $98,540 | — |
| Nevada | $43,750 | $81,630 | $82,790 | 160 |
| New York | $62,780 | $78,870 | $119,990 | 1,400 |
| Washington | $41,320 | $72,430 | $101,530 | 350 |
| Connecticut | $56,160 | $71,210 | $84,520 | 100 |
| Maryland | $54,690 | $66,180 | $75,610 | 80 |
| Georgia | $50,350 | $65,010 | $77,540 | 350 |
| New Mexico | $45,380 | $63,090 | $72,830 | 70 |
| Minnesota | $56,010 | $61,730 | $81,800 | — |
| California | $37,560 | $58,240 | $154,540 | 2,560 |
| Utah | $41,560 | $57,270 | $80,640 | 80 |
| Arizona | $37,340 | $56,160 | $91,340 | 110 |
All 30 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Medical Illustrator (CMI) — Association of Medical Illustrators
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 27-1013.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.