Statics show that most of the visual artists work independently compared to those who are employed and depend on a salary. A Visual artist has different areas of specialization. Some of the specialization includes crafts, multimedia, animations fine arts and art direction. You will require a college degree or a post-secondary course in a visual arts program to qualify in most of the jobs that involve visual arts. There is so much competition in this field due to many qualified people who have done these courses.

To begin a job in visual arts, it is good to shape it up when still in high school by taking art related classes. Art history classes can be really useful too. You may opt to go for an art history class in a community college if not in high school.

Additionally, you will need business classes to help you progress in your job later on. Make sure to hone your English abilities to enhance your writing abilities too. For example should you become an art director, you may want to write a grant application that will help you in your business later on.

Practical experience is equally important in this case. Participate in extra-curricular and leisure activities to add to your visual arts knowledge. Visit photo galleries, photo trade fairs and museums frequently to improve your knowledge. If you are in high school or something, consider joining the school theater groups or work for the school yearbook.

Art and design schools emphasize on practical skills more than the theory part as in the case of colleges and universities. You can succeed as a visual artist without a certificate or college degree but it is still recommended to have this qualification in order to improve your chances of working. In the recent years, many of the studio art classes have included to their curriculum computer graphics and software. If you want to specialize in a medical illustrating specialty, it will be necessary to take premedical classes. Someone who wants to become an art director will need to take classes on art direction or art administration.

The most crucial part if you want to develop a career in visual arts is building your portfolio. Your portfolio will be your resume. This is mostly an important element in visual arts programs. Put your photos, painting, prints, drawings or any other own media to promote your portfolio. Your portfolio will showcase your skill either as a freelance illustrator, fine artist, animator or any other of your specialty.

The best way to begin your professional career is by finding an entry level job or look for freelance clients in case you are a freelance illustrator. Ask most of the artists and most of them will tell you they began freelancing as students and increased their client base as time went by until they became professionals.

It is advisable that you begin with less challenging tasks to help you improve your skills as time goes by. The bureau of labor statistics indicate that jobs for multimedia artists will get more opportunities by the year 2018. The percentage projection of this is around 14 percent job increase.