Fine options

There is no ideal way to enter acareer in the fine / commercial / applied arts.Having a pursued aformal degree programme is of course a step in the right direction. Knowing whatare the opportunities definitely helps you to move forward. So for all those whohave their formal qualifications in place here are some insights on how andwhere to make your mark without further ado. Full-time Fine Artsdegree/ diploma course continue to offer tremendous diversity not only in itsapplications but also in career options. Boundaries between areas such assculpting, painting, printmaking, applied arts can be often overlapping withdesign (such as offered in bachelor of design or NID’s Graduate Diplomaprogramme). Formal art programmes may offer multi-disciplinary specialisation.Computer graphics is the new method of creating artwork. Nowadays art programmesalso provide training in computer techniques. Computers find wideapplications in the visual arts and knowledge and training in them are vital formany jobs for artists. If this was not a part of your training, basic trainingin computer art software is a good idea.Start withIn theeffort to explore work options, the artist has to start with a‘portfolio’. The portfolio is a collection of handmade,computer-generated or printed samples of an artist’s best work. A collegeart programme usually incorporates skills required to assemble a goodportfolio.Work optionsArtists mostly work freelance oron a commission basis. Full-time regular jobs are limited (many artists are notinclined towards them, either). Major commissions are rare for new artists andthe privilege of a showing in well-known galleries is restricted. Sponsorshipsand grants from private trusts or state art councils, etc remain competitive.However, studios and galleries and individual clients are always on the lookoutfor fresh talent, style and creativity.Artists find work inillustration, or design for publications, films, textiles, greeting cards, andthere is a lot of scope for work as animators. Growth in the entertainmentindustry and in the media will provide more opportunities for illustrators,animators and cartoonists. Infotainment is the genre that offers scope forartists too. Photography, interior decoration, textile design,graphic arts, metal works, ceramics are among the specialisations possible in afine/ applied art programme. Each field by itself offers its own specific workopportunities. Photography offers scope for work in newspaper publishing,businesses, fashion industry, portraiture, advertising, etc. Some artists alsoturn to jewellery designing, exhibition designing or set designing. Teaching artto different age groups is also an option. Prospects Artis a glamorous and exciting field attracts more aspirants than there are formaljobs. There is keen competition for both salaried and freelance work.Determination is important for achieving success, as are talent, creativity,the ability to communicate, personal drive and luck. Growth prospects are betterin commercial/applied/graphic arts.