Tell me about it
Artists express their creative ideas through original work, such as paintings, sculptures and installations, which they then usually seek to sell through agents, art dealers and galleries. They may choose to specialise in one medium, such as oils, and a specific area, such as seascapes, or they may use a variety of techniques, subjects and media. Occasionally, an artist may be commissioned to produce a piece of work to a required theme.

Illustrators use their creativity and their technical painting and drawing skills in a more overtly commercial sense, responding mostly to briefs from publishers or advertising agencies to communicate pictorial ideas for books, magazines, comics, advertisements and so on. They might specialise in, for example, scientific, technical and medical illustration, creating illustrations for text and reference books that may show new products, processes or techniques.

In addition to producing their work, artists must spend some time promoting their work to people who can sell it, such as dealers and agents, and identifying which galleries or clients might buy their art. More established artists often sell their work through a single agent or gallery that works on their behalf.

Similarly, illustrators need to liaise with clients, editors and authors in order to understand and interpret their business needs, to build an understanding of what sort of styles would be appropriate, and to negotiate prices and deadlines.

Entry level
The majority of artists and illustrators have formal qualifications, such as an HND or degree in art and design. These qualifications are offered across the UK in universities and art colleges.

Some art colleges and universities offer places to students who can demonstrate creativity and talent, although most courses require five GCSEs/S grades (A-C/1-3) and sometimes A levels/H grades or equivalent. However, a good portfolio of work is usually the most important part of an application.

Many students in England and Wales take a foundation course in art and design, usually lasting one year, as preparation for a degree in art. In Scotland, degrees last four years and there is no foundation course.

Making the grade
Having completed their degree, many artists specialise in a certain area and take a postgraduate qualification in this field. Artists are continuously experimenting with techniques, and trying to explore new methods and styles. Occasionally, a young artist may manage to find work with an established artist, who can help them to improve their skills and techniques, and who can offer practical advice on how to sell work. This enables the artist to compile a stronger portfolio, and may give them a stronger chance of finding work in a freelance career.

Making a living as an artist can be very difficult and only a very small number manage to support themselves solely by selling their work. Success will depend to a large extent on your ability to build a reputation among other artists and collectors and to achieve a healthy sales turnover.

As an illustrator, you must maintain a portfolio of your very best work. If you have no published work, you should start by creating a portfolio that demonstrates your ability to work to a brief. This could include designing a cover and a set of illustrations for a leading magazine, an advertising image for a well-known product or illustrations for a computer handbook. You may use an agent to secure commissions for you, although this could cost as much as 40% of your fee.

Personal qualities
As an artist or illustrator, you would need to have a very high level of creativity, an understanding of form, colour and media, belief in your own ability and the self-discipline to complete work on time.

You must be able to work to a brief, where appropriate, and you must be able to accept criticism of your work. Good communication skills are essential for building a network of contacts, and you should not overlook the importance of money management skills.

Looking ahead
Only a small number of well-established artists can support themselves financially from their art work alone. The majority of artists, young and more mature, have to make a living from related jobs.

On average, it takes most illustrators a good five or six years to build a reputation and become established in the industry. Setting up as a freelance illustrator can be risky, so you might decide to build up contacts and clients gradually, whilst doing other paid work.

Career progression is relatively limited. The majority of illustrators remain as freelances and can enjoy a highly successful career. Some combine illustration successfully with teaching; others may progress from freelance illustrator to art director with a firm of publishers, or occasionally work as an agent for other illustrators.

Alternative suggestions
Other possibilities might include art director, art therapist, fashion designer, graphic designer, interior designer, photographer or textile designer.

Take-home pay
Salaries for artists are extremely hard to estimate as sales are dependent on current tastes in the art world, contacts and the quality of work. There is no typical salary, although some artists-in-residence projects can run for a number of years, and here artists may earn around £25,000 to £28,000 a year in fees. Public art commissions can also be a good source of income, but fees usually exclude materials and other expenses.

For illustrators, rates are usually per illustration and are based on the usage of the piece, print size and quantity. You might earn £600 to £1,000 for a book cover or, if you break into the lucrative world of advertising, £3,000 for a full-page advertisement in a national tabloid. Occasionally, a daily rate is offered, which could be in the region of £150 to £250, depending on your experience. Your pay can fluctuate wildly, according to the state of the market.

Effects
Artists and illustrators frequently work long and irregular hours to complete work, which might include weekends and evenings. A working week of over 40 hours is fairly normal to produce a portfolio of work of any quality.

Some artists have to work more regular hours if they have a residency or have been commissioned to produce a series of works.

Sources of information
Arts Council of England: www.artscouncil.org.uk
Arts Council of Wales: www.artswales.org
Artists Information Company: www.a-n.co.uk
Association of Illustrators: www.theaoi.com
Crafts Council: www.craftscouncil.org.uk
National Society for Education in Art and Design: www.nsead.org
The Scottish Arts Council: www.scottisharts.org.uk
Your Creative Future: www.yourcreativefuture.org

CRCI: E