13 Well-Paying Art Major Jobs

There are several art major jobs available after graduation. Knowing the typical pay art majors can earn on the job market might point you on the right path if you’re unsure of the exact field to pursue. We discuss a few of the well-paying art major jobs for persons with an art degree in this post along with an explanation of what an art major studies.

What is an art major?

An art major is a college or university student who is studying art or a related field such as graphic design, illustration, art history, or art education. Art majors typically take courses in drawing, painting, sculpture, digital media, art theory, and art history, among other subjects. They develop their artistic skills through hands-on studio work and critique sessions with professors and peers. Many art majors also participate in internships, exhibitions, and other professional development opportunities to gain real-world experience and build their portfolios. Overall, an art major can prepare students for a variety of careers in the creative arts industry or beyond.

What are the studies for an art major?

A formal sequence of courses is studied by an art major to obtain a degree in fine or media arts. Media art would comprise disciplines like animation, graphic design, and other related ones, whereas fine art would cover areas of study like painting, film, or sculpture.

Photography, painting, History, design, and are all options for art majors. At many schools, including four-year universities and online, you can major in art. Additionally, you can earn anything from a certificate in the arts to a doctorate in the arts. Because it covers such a broad range of topics, the field of art studies offers several career options. For instance, you could work as an animator, graphic designer, textile designer, or art critic with a degree in the arts.

Why study an art major?

There are several reasons why someone might choose to study an art major. Here are a few:

Develop artistic skills

Studying an art major is an excellent opportunity to develop artistic skills and improve technique. Each art medium requires a different set of skills and a different approach, and studying an art major allows students to explore and master a variety of methods. Professors and peers provide helpful feedback and guidance, helping students refine their craft and develop new techniques. Additionally, students get to work with high-quality materials and equipment, which can further enhance their skills.

Pursue a passion

Many people who study art major are passionate about art and want to explore their creativity. Studying an art major allows students to pursue their interests in art and creativity in a structured way. They can explore different mediums and techniques, experiment with new ideas, and create their artwork. Studying art also provides an opportunity to share their work with others and receive feedback, which can be motivating and inspiring.

Prepare for a career in the arts

Art majors can prepare students for a variety of careers in the creative arts industry. For example, graphic designers create visual designs for a variety of mediums, while art educators teach and inspire future generations of artists. Other careers in the arts include art therapy, art curation, art restoration, and more. Studying an art major can provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in these fields, including technical skills, artistic vision, and business acumen.

Enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills

Studying art can enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which can be applied across a variety of disciplines. Through the process of creating art, students learn to analyze and interpret complex ideas, communicate their thoughts and experiences, and develop creative solutions to problems. These skills can be valuable in many different careers, including business, science, education, and more.

Explore new perspectives

The study of art exposes students to new ideas, cultures, and perspectives. Art history, for example, provides insights into the development of art over time and across cultures. Studying different art styles and movements can broaden students’ understanding of the world around them while exploring new mediums allows them to experiment and challenge their perspectives. These experiences can be transformative and help students develop a deeper appreciation for art and the world around them.

Art Major jobs that pay well

Think about your desired salary when looking for art major jobs that interest you. Below are 13 art major jobs with high salaries:

1. Retail planner

National average yearly salary: $71,013

Primary responsibilities: Retail planners’ main responsibilities in art major jobs include making retail sales plans, managing new openings, and assisting with sales and stock analysis for the organization. Along with supervising their team, they are in constant contact with stakeholders. Store planners need to be exceptional multitaskers, skilled communicators, and time managers.

2. An interior designer

National average yearly salary: $58,585

Primary responsibilities: The primary responsibility of an interior designer in art major jobs is to plan the inside of a place by customer requirements. This can involve planning it with style, use, safety, and the total quantity of space available in mind. Generally speaking, these places are made to be aesthetically pleasant by interior designers. They add several ornamental elements into their work, like vase decoration, lighting, flooring, and wall color selections. Additionally, they oversee construction, develop a schedule for the project’s conclusion, and draft architectural designs. Interior designers may operate as independent freelancers or employees of a company.

3. A director of art

National Average Yearly Wage: $71,332

Primary responsibilities: The main responsibilities of an art director with art major jobs include developing art layouts, coming up with concepts, getting client approval, and managing the design team as a whole. They are primarily responsible for a marketing or media campaign’s visual elements. In addition to having exceptional photography and typography skills, art directors should also be innovative as well as possess excellent interpersonal skills.

4. An industrial designer

National average yearly salary: $63,373

Primary responsibilities: Industrial designers with art major jobs are in charge of developing and creating a variety of produced goods. They consult with the market research division, visit with clients, and create rough designs to offer to their customers. Industrial designers should have strong sketching skills, an understanding of balance, technological expertise, and effective communication skills.

5. Product designer

National average yearly salary: $97,162

Primary responsibilities: Simply defined, product designers’ main responsibilities in art major jobs are to create new or improved consumer products. Based on input from both internal and external collaborators, they develop product specs, sketch out a product, and then fully design it. Additionally, product designers conduct research on various methods of product development, evaluate a product’s functionality, and enhance the design of existing items. Product designers must possess excellent technical and communication skills, as well as an eye for detail and general design abilities.

6. A creative director

National average yearly salary: $86,729

Primary responsibilities: Creative directors in art major jobs, usually referred to as “design directors,” are in charge of organizing numerous brainstorming sessions and meetings, coming up with fresh firm branding strategies, keeping an eye on emerging trends, and aiding clients. They are responsible for managing the creative department of their organization, overseeing workflow, and delegating work to other team members. You should have excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation abilities if you want to be a creative director in art major jobs.

7. A designer of user experiences (UX)

National average yearly salary: $90,967

Primary responsibilities: In addition to conducting usability tests, UX designers with art major jobs are also responsible for developing wireframes, and sitemaps, and working with the client and their product team. They are in charge of the user experience process, which entails research, drawing, and prototyping for experiences with digital products. UX designers with art major jobs need to be knowledgeable about UX software, excellent communicators, and user research experts.

8. A technical designer

National average yearly salary: $61,223

Primary responsibilities: A technical designer’s task in art major jobs is to essentially bring a fashion designer’s drawing to life. The designer, producer, and merchandiser are only a few of the people who are part of the fashion design team that collaborates with technical designers. Their responsibility is to make that clothing complies with established requirements. You need to have a strong eye for detail, excellent problem-solving abilities, and a love of fashion to succeed in this position.

9. A senior fashion designer

National average yearly salary: $79,292

Primary responsibilities: Senior fashion designers with art major jobs are in charge of creating new ranges of apparel, accessories, and other items. They create lines that have become popular and cater each design to a certain market. Senior fashion designers with art major jobs are in charge of creating design sketches, investigating textiles and current color trends, and managing the production of the entire design. Senior fashion designers should be proficient technically and have a good sense of texture and color.

10. Gallery manager

National Average Yearly Wage: $48,656

Primary responsibilities: Gallery managers’ main responsibilities in art major jobs include planning numerous shows for the public or private gallery that they work for. They also have specific responsibilities that are determined by the gallery. Many people are in charge of making sure visitors to the gallery are taken care of and appropriately attended to. Budget management, monitoring the installation of exhibits, coordinating with artists and galleries, maintaining the gallery website, speaking with framers, and supervising technical work are additional responsibilities for gallery managers.

11. Multimedia Artist & Animator

National Average Yearly Wage: $77,700

Primary responsibilities: These professionals with art major jobs create animation and visual effects for movies, television shows, video games, and other forms of media. They use computer programs and other tools to create realistic and engaging images and animations. Multimedia artists and animators with art major jobs typically have a bachelor’s degree in art, computer graphics, or a related field, along with experience with animation software and tools.

12. Architect

National Average Yearly Wage: $82,320

Primary responsibilities: Architects with art major jobs design and plan buildings and structures, from houses to skyscrapers. They use their artistic skills to create aesthetically pleasing designs that are also functional and safe.

13. Art Therapist

National Average Yearly Wage: $51,000

Primary responsibilities: Art therapists with art major jobs use art to help people to express themselves and improve their mental health and well-being. They work with individuals or groups in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, schools, or private practices. Art therapists typically have a master’s degree in art therapy, along with licensure or certification in their state

What Do Art Lessons Entail?

Art lessons can vary depending on the instructor, the level of the students, and the medium being taught. However, there are some common elements you might find in art lessons. Here’s an overview of what you might learn in art lessons:

  • Technical skills: Depending on the medium being taught, you’ll learn various techniques and skills related to that medium. For example, if you’re taking a drawing class, you might learn about shading, perspective, composition, and mark-making techniques. In a painting class, you might learn about color theory, paint application, and blending techniques.
  • Creativity: In art lessons, instructors will often encourage creativity and experimentation. You’ll have the opportunity to explore and develop your artistic style while learning technical skills.
  • Critique: Art lessons often include critique sessions, where instructors and peers offer feedback on your work. This can help identify strengths and weaknesses in your artwork and identify areas for improvement.
  • Art history: Depending on the course, you might also learn about art history and different art movements. This can help you understand the context of various art styles and provide inspiration for your work.
  • Professional development: In some courses, you might also learn about the business side of the art world, such as how to market your work, how to create a portfolio, and how to approach potential clients or galleries.

Overall, art lessons are designed to provide students with the technical skills, creativity, and knowledge necessary to become successful artists in art major jobs or pursue careers in the arts.

Why should I bother studying art if I have no desire to be an artist?

Even though it might not be your favorite topic, learning in the arts increases academic accomplishment. Students do better in math, English, critical thinking, and verbal abilities in schools that incorporate the arts into the curriculum.

Education in the arts can also aid in the development of abilities and methods of operation that will be useful to you in any future vocation you decide to pursue.

Even if you don’t want to become an artist, studying art can still be beneficial in several ways. Here are some reasons why you should consider studying art, even if you don’t plan to become an artist:

Improve creativity

Creativity is a valuable skill in many different professions, and art classes can help improve your creativity even if you don’t plan to pursue a career in the arts. You’ll learn to think outside the box, experiment with new ideas, and find innovative solutions to problems. These skills can be valuable in many different fields, from business to science. Anyone who can think with imagination and creativity will succeed in any subject. Employers value these abilities in addition to credentials. Making and engaging in art helps people develop these abilities.

Enhance critical thinking skills

Studying art can help you develop critical thinking skills in several ways. For example, analyzing and interpreting artwork requires you to use your observation skills, think critically about what you’re seeing, and make connections between different elements of the piece. You’ll also learn to see situations from different perspectives, which can be helpful when problem-solving in other areas of life. When you study art, you develop autonomous and team working skills as well as time management abilities that are valued by employers.

Gain an appreciation for art

Art is a significant part of our culture, and studying art can help you develop an appreciation for different types of art, from classical to contemporary. You’ll learn about different artistic traditions, styles, and movements, and how they have influenced each other over time. This knowledge can help you appreciate and understand the world around you, and it can enrich your life and experiences. Studying the arts cultivates perseverance and determination, traits beneficial in any profession. It teaches us to have the confidence to try again when we fail or don’t get something completely perfect the first time.

Develop cultural understanding

Art is often associated with different cultures, and studying art can help you appreciate and understand different cultures. You’ll learn about how different artistic traditions and styles are expressed through various mediums, and how they reflect the beliefs, customs, and values of different societies. This knowledge can help you become more culturally aware and sensitive, which can be valuable in many different contexts.

Transferable skills

Many skills you learn in art classes are transferable to other fields. For example, you’ll learn to work well under pressure, solve problems creatively, and work collaboratively with others. These skills can be valuable in many different professions, from business to healthcare.

Overall, studying art can help you develop skills that are valuable across a wide range of professions, deepen your appreciation for the world around you, and broaden your cultural understanding. It’s a valuable field of study, even if you don’t plan to become an artist.

Employers of art majors

Art majors can work in a variety of industries and for a range of employers. Here are some examples of employers that often hire art majors:

  • Advertising Agencies: Advertising agencies hire art directors, graphic designers, and other creative professionals to develop advertising campaigns for their clients.
  • Media Companies: Media companies, such as film studios and television networks, hire art directors, animators, and visual effects artists to create the visual style and effects for movies, TV shows, and commercials.
  • Design Firms: Design firms hire graphic designers, industrial designers, and other creative professionals to develop designs for products, packaging, and branding.
  • Publishing Companies: Publishing companies hire graphic designers, illustrators, and photographers to create book covers, illustrations, and photographs for books, magazines, and other publications.
  • Nonprofit Organizations: Nonprofit organizations hire art therapists to work with individuals or groups to improve mental health and well-being using art therapy.
  • Educational Institutions: Educational institutions hire art educators to teach art to students of all ages, from elementary school to college.
  • Museums and Galleries: Museums and galleries hire curators, art historians, and exhibition designers to manage collections, plan exhibitions, and develop educational programs.
  • Government Agencies: Government agencies hire graphic designers and other creative professionals to develop visual materials for public information campaigns, educational programs, and other initiatives.

Overall, art majors can find employment opportunities in a wide range of industries and for various types of employers, depending on their skills and interests.

The work environment for art major careers

The work environment for people with art major jobs can vary greatly, depending on their specific job and employer. Here are some common work environments for people with art major jobs:

  • Office: Many people with art major jobs work in office environments, especially in advertising agencies, design firms, and media companies. These offices typically have open floor plans with workstations or cubicles, along with meeting rooms and shared spaces for collaboration.
  • Studio: People with art major jobs who work as professional artists or designers often have studios or workspaces, where they can create and produce their work. These spaces can be located in shared artist communities or their own homes.
  • Classroom: Art educators typically work in classrooms, either in schools or at community centers. They may work with students of all ages, from young children to adults.
  • Gallery or Museum: People with art major jobs who work in galleries or museums may work in exhibition spaces or behind-the-scenes roles. They may curate exhibitions, manage collections, or develop educational programs for the public.
  • Production Studio: Multimedia artists and animators often work in production studios, where they collaborate with other digital artists, editors, and producers. These studios are typically equipped with high-end computers and software for creating animations and visual effects.
  • On Location: Some individuals with art major jobs, such as photographers or videographers, may work on location, either in a studio or outdoors. They may travel to different locations for shoots or work on-site at event venues.

Overall, the work environment for people with art majors can vary greatly, depending on their specific job and interests. Many individuals with art major jobs work in collaborative environments, where they can work with other artists or designers to develop creative solutions for their clients. They may work in traditional office settings or more non-traditional spaces, such as studios or on location.

Conclusion

Even though earning money isn’t the primary motivation for getting an art degree, it is important, just like your art. There is no need to compromise between leading a comfortable life and having a rewarding career; there are many intriguing careers you may achieve with an art degree that make it possible for you to accomplish both. Art majors can find many high-paying art major jobs in a variety of industries. These jobs require specialized skills and education, along with years of experience in the field. Pursuing an art major can lead to a rewarding and lucrative career for those who are willing to work hard and develop their skills.

Frequently Asked Questions about art major jobs

Here are 5 frequently asked questions about art major jobs and their answers:

  • What are some career options for art majors?

Art majors can pursue a variety of careers, including graphic design, illustration, art education, art therapy, art restoration, art curation, and more. Some art majors also choose to become professional artists and exhibit their work.

  • Is it necessary to have a natural talent for art to study an art major?

While having natural artistic talent can be helpful, it’s not necessary to study an art major. With hard work, practice, and dedication, anyone can develop their artistic skills and become proficient in various mediums.

  • What skills do art majors develop?

Art majors develop many skills, including technical skills related to their chosen medium, creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. They also develop skills related to working collaboratively, giving and receiving feedback, and managing projects.

  • What types of courses can be taken in an art major?

Art majors can take a variety of courses, including drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, digital media, art history, art theory, and more. The courses will depend on the specific program and the student’s interests.

  • Is studying an art major a good investment?

Studying an art major can be a good investment, depending on the individual’s goals and career aspirations. It can prepare students for a variety of careers in the creative arts industry, and the demand for art professionals is expected to grow in the coming years. Additionally, art majors can develop transferable skills that can be valuable in other fields. However, it’s important to research job prospects and earning potential before pursuing an art major.