Career Profile

Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators

What they do:

Create original artwork using any of a wide variety of media and techniques.

Also Called:

Artist, Automotive Artist, Blacksmith, Fine Artist, Ice Carver, Illustrator, Muralist, Painter, Portrait Artist, Sculptor, Artist, Automotive Artist, Blacksmith, Fine Artist, Ice Carver, Illustrator, Muralist, Painter, Portrait Artist, Sculptor
$15,080
Starting Salary (2025)
$25,830
Median Salary (2025)
-1.2%
Projected Job Growth
40
KS Employment (2025)

Typical Tasks

Integrate and develop visual elements, such as line, space, mass, color, and perspective, to produce desired effects, such as the illustration of ideas, emotions, or moods.
Use materials such as pens and ink, watercolors, charcoal, oil, or computer software to create artwork.
Study different techniques to learn how to apply them to artistic endeavors.
Maintain portfolios of artistic work to demonstrate styles, interests, and abilities.
Photograph objects, places, or scenes for reference material.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Artistic
Conceptual, Creative Work
Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
Investigative
Studying, Research based work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Attention to Detail
Dependability
Integrity
Initiative
Stress Tolerance
Adaptability/Flexibility

What key skills are needed for this job?

Active Learning
Critical Thinking
Active Listening
Speaking
Reading Comprehension
Judgment and Decision Making

Expected Knowledge

Design

Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.

Computers and Electronics

Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

English Language

Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Common Activities

Thinking Creatively

Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.

Getting Information

Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.

Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work

Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.

Education & Preparation

Some occupations may require additional education, advanced degrees, and years of experience in the field.
Talk to your support team on campus about this career pathway and additional degree information.
Job Zone 3

Medium Preparation Needed

Education

Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

Experience

Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations.

Training

Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

Typical Education Required

Education a new hire may need

  • Some college 37%
  • Bachelor's degree 35%
  • High school diploma 27%
  • Post-secondary certificate 0%
  • Professional degree 0%
Source: O*NET Education, Training & Experience data

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