How to become a fine artist
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- self-teaching
University
You'll need a high level of skill and talent in your chosen art form. To develop these skills, you could train by doing a degree or postgraduate award in:
- art and design
- art history
- fine art
- visual arts
- graphic arts
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- a foundation diploma in art and design
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
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College
You can do a Level 4 Higher National Certificate or Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Art and Design or Art Practice.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a higher national certificate or higher national diploma
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Volunteering
Volunteering with community arts projects can open up possibilities and extend your network of contacts, which could be useful for finding work.
Other Routes
If you're exceptionally talented and have taught yourself, you may be able sell your work without formal training or qualifications.
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Career tips
You'll need to be able to promote yourself in different ways. You could:
- create an online presence through your own website, blog or through social media channels
- join together with other artists to form a 'collective' or artistic community
- organise your own shows in galleries or other venues
You could also:
- get an agent
- raise funds through crowdfunding websites
- illustrate products like books or greetings cards
Entering competitions or open exhibitions can also raise your profile as an artist. a-n The Artists Information Company regularly lists opportunities.
Professional and industry bodies
You could become a member of a-n The Artists Information Company for networking and professional development opportunities.
Further information
You can find out more about becoming a fine artist from: