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Illustrator
ArtBistro
Job Description
Illustrators typically create pictures for books, magazines, and other publications and for commercial products such as textiles, wrapping paper, stationery, greeting cards, and calendars. Increasingly, illustrators are working in digital format, preparing work directly on a computer.
Evidence of appropriate talent and skill, displayed in an artist’s portfolio, is an important factor used by art directors, clients, and others in deciding whether to hire an individual or to contract out work. The portfolio is a collection of handmade, computer-generated, photographic, or printed samples of the artist’s best work. Assembling a successful portfolio requires skills usually developed through postsecondary training in art or visual communications. Internships also provide excellent opportunities for artists to develop and enhance their portfolios.
Median Annual Salary
$29,000
Educational Requirements
Postsecondary training is recommended for all artist specialties. Although formal training is not strictly required, it is very difficult to become skilled enough to make a living without some training. Many colleges and universities offer programs leading to the bachelor’s or master’s degree in fine arts. Courses usually include core subjects such as English, social science, and natural science, in addition to art history and studio art.
For more information about becoming an illustrator, read our helpful guides:
Nine Steps to a Career in the Visual Arts
What to Expect from a Career in the Arts
The Expanding Field of Illustration
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From the Editor
Are you a student looking into a career in illustration? Check out these resources:
SerendipityRed
about 1 month ago
6 comments
anyone have any suggestions on where to go to find work? I really would like to make money as an artist, but live in wonder lake, IL ... I have been contenting myself with other things and do fine art and illustrations for myself to keep busy and now am a mom.
SerendipityRed
about 1 month ago
6 comments
ha ha good luck finding work if you live out in the country ... i have pretty much given up and am thinking pan handling would be a better routine!
mvimislik
7 months ago
44 comments
I REEEEALLY hope you can earn more than $29,000 a year
Hairball
8 months ago
18 comments
I've been an illustrator full time for 20 years now. Times are really tough, but it is an insanely great job. You have to be willing to work long hours, but if you love to create that is not a problem. You also must meet deadlines and be able to come up with concepts fast. If you are not a speedy artist then maybe illustration is not for you. And you must be willing to beat the bushes for jobs and handle your finances. That part is not easy. I do make much more than the $29,000 though and I love my work.
SonyaLee
about 1 year ago
6 comments
Question does anyone know how to get into Medical illustrations?????
Dogon80
about 1 year ago
4 comments
Yes, i agree, I found recieved job offers on places like deviantart, its a start for sure. But being an illustrator, ive heard that u should be prepared to go hungry at times, but i guess its all about the love for it!
Account Removed
about 1 year ago
I'd love to be a full-time illustrator. Problem is, you don't get paid until you do the work. But if you know where to look, it shouldn't be too bad for those just looking for side work. Having a network can help. I found that by visiting some of the online forums, such as DeviantArt, there are people actually online looking for illustrators. Plus, it's a great way to help build up a portfolio :)
gekko
about 1 year ago
5350 comments
& remember, SOMEONE has to do those little black & white pieces for the dictionary!
johnwaxart
over 2 years ago
630 comments
During my 23 years in the field, I do not know any “illustrators”per say, but I do know a whole lot of graphic designers who are very artistic, who have the ability to draw and paint, traditionally and digitally. That’s why I always say versatility is the most important item in your portfolio. If you can do it all, you’ll have a better shot in the workplace. If you are familiar with The Book of Illustrators and its’ many volumes you know what I am talking about: Hundreds of thousands of individual artists who each specialize in various subject matter, such as hands, people, food, medical drawings, animals etc. It’s depressing and I know many of these artists have “regular” jobs. Each of these artists are represented by different ad firms and publicists. It’s crazy. The only guy I’ve ever met who was a bonafide illustrator lives in China. He does nothing but quick little pencil portraits of CEO’s and CFO’s for corporate annual reports (IBM, CBS, Cisco). I would guess that many illustrators today are forced to pursue other services in their field and expand their capabilities.
musarter
over 2 years ago
262 comments
This is all fine and dandy but it does not explain how limited the market is for illustraition and how it is commonly a contract job, and rarely a salary position. This should be explained to students and perspective illustrators before they embark into education or a career. I don't intend to discourage, but I want to be realistic. The cool thing is, if you do make it, will have really acheived something great.
alan
over 2 years ago
22 comments
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