2 answers
Cass
Student
Queen Creek, Arizona
2
Questions
Asked
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Im a experienced nurse considering switching to the art industry full time. I have experience in traditional art. Afraid I wont make nearly the same amount of income if i switch careers Need advice . Should I take a couple of digital art classes or get a full degree. Also considering to become a medical illustrator. please help!! ?
Nursing over 10 yrs. Having the courage to consider a change. Art is my true passion
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2 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1463
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Cass!
First off, respect for considering a career change because honestly It's not easy, but when your passion is pulling you towards something, it's totally worth it. Switching from nursing to the art world, especially with your background, could be a really exciting adventure. And don't worry Cass your skillset is transferable in ways you might not even realize.
Now lemme just say, If you’re just starting with digital art, a couple of classes could be a great way to dip your toes into the medium and see if it feels right for you. Digital art can be a big leap from traditional, so having some foundation can build your confidence before diving deeper. If you’re serious about switching to art full-time, a full degree in something like Illustration or Digital Media would give you more structure, portfolio development, and connections. But lemme say it’s definitely not mandatory. Many successful artists are self-taught, especially in the digital space, where you can learn a lot through online tutorials, practice, and feedback from others. My own sister has been doing it herself as well and she is outdone it all the way so I know you can too.
Also given your background in nursing, medical illustration could be a perfect intersection of your healthcare expertise and your passion for art. There’s a demand for skilled illustrators who understand anatomy, medical terminology, and healthcare settings, so you're already ahead in that department. You don’t necessarily need a full degree in medical illustration, but having formal education in both art and medical knowledge (which you already have) can make you stand out. There are specialized programs and courses in this field, and they often cover the technical and ethical aspects of creating medical visuals.
Now, about your income worry. It's true that artists in general might not have the same immediate financial stability as a seasoned nurse, but the key here is building a niche where your unique skillset shines. Medical illustrators, for example, can make a solid income, especially if they work with hospitals, medical companies, or in the scientific publishing industry. A lot of artists build a portfolio while still working part-time or freelancing, so you don't have to jump straight into full-time right away.
What I can recommend you is, Start by building your portfolio with both traditional and digital pieces. As you grow your skills, you’ll find your own style and voice. Focus on creating a few pieces that showcase your medical knowledge and artistic talent, this could be sketches of anatomy, medical diagrams, or conceptual art.
Get involved with online art communities, join freelance platforms, or look for part-time work while you transition. Freelancing is a great way to earn money while pursuing your passion. you can make your LenkidIn profile and start connect with other professionals as well in the industry and hear their sights and intakes as well.
Ultimately, follow your heart! It might take time to build up to the income you’re used to in nursing, but the reward of doing what you love will be worth it. Plus, with your background in both fields, you'll be able to find that sweet spot where passion meets practicality....literally. You got this, Cass, and we are here for you always. Feel free to reach out if you need.
Start by taking a free or affordable digital art class online. There are a ton of resources like Skillshare, Udemy, or even YouTube tutorials, where you can start exploring digital art techniques. Set aside some time each day or week to practice, and try combining your medical knowledge with your art (even if it's just sketching anatomical illustrations digitally to start). This way, you can get your feet wet, build some confidence, and see if you enjoy it enough to invest in a more formal course later on. Plus, you’ll be building a portfolio of work that could be helpful if you decide to pursue a medical illustration career.
Since you're considering a career in medical illustration, research what it entails. Look into specialized schools, certifications, or even online courses for medical illustration. The Association of Medical Illustrators could be a good place to start for both resources and networking, so do check it out I recommend.
Reach out to people already working in the art field, especially medical illustrators. LinkedIn or Instagram are great places to connect. Ask them about their journey, the challenges they faced, and how they managed the career switch. Their insights could be super helpful in making your decision! There are others who have done this switch as well so will help you stay inspired and motivated too buddy.
First off, respect for considering a career change because honestly It's not easy, but when your passion is pulling you towards something, it's totally worth it. Switching from nursing to the art world, especially with your background, could be a really exciting adventure. And don't worry Cass your skillset is transferable in ways you might not even realize.
Now lemme just say, If you’re just starting with digital art, a couple of classes could be a great way to dip your toes into the medium and see if it feels right for you. Digital art can be a big leap from traditional, so having some foundation can build your confidence before diving deeper. If you’re serious about switching to art full-time, a full degree in something like Illustration or Digital Media would give you more structure, portfolio development, and connections. But lemme say it’s definitely not mandatory. Many successful artists are self-taught, especially in the digital space, where you can learn a lot through online tutorials, practice, and feedback from others. My own sister has been doing it herself as well and she is outdone it all the way so I know you can too.
Also given your background in nursing, medical illustration could be a perfect intersection of your healthcare expertise and your passion for art. There’s a demand for skilled illustrators who understand anatomy, medical terminology, and healthcare settings, so you're already ahead in that department. You don’t necessarily need a full degree in medical illustration, but having formal education in both art and medical knowledge (which you already have) can make you stand out. There are specialized programs and courses in this field, and they often cover the technical and ethical aspects of creating medical visuals.
Now, about your income worry. It's true that artists in general might not have the same immediate financial stability as a seasoned nurse, but the key here is building a niche where your unique skillset shines. Medical illustrators, for example, can make a solid income, especially if they work with hospitals, medical companies, or in the scientific publishing industry. A lot of artists build a portfolio while still working part-time or freelancing, so you don't have to jump straight into full-time right away.
What I can recommend you is, Start by building your portfolio with both traditional and digital pieces. As you grow your skills, you’ll find your own style and voice. Focus on creating a few pieces that showcase your medical knowledge and artistic talent, this could be sketches of anatomy, medical diagrams, or conceptual art.
Get involved with online art communities, join freelance platforms, or look for part-time work while you transition. Freelancing is a great way to earn money while pursuing your passion. you can make your LenkidIn profile and start connect with other professionals as well in the industry and hear their sights and intakes as well.
Ultimately, follow your heart! It might take time to build up to the income you’re used to in nursing, but the reward of doing what you love will be worth it. Plus, with your background in both fields, you'll be able to find that sweet spot where passion meets practicality....literally. You got this, Cass, and we are here for you always. Feel free to reach out if you need.
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Scott Harvey, MBA
Teacher
2
Answers
Leeds, Alabama
Updated
Scott’s Answer
Lots of questions and loads of variables, but from my experience and my friends who did something similar, you have a couple of branches you could take. One, don’t leave your current trajectory and ease into the art field slowly by gaining experience. I’m always a proponent of education in your field as it’s good networking and produces results. Branch two is jumping in with both feet and building the airplane on the way down with a little turbulence and a conceivable bumpy landing. I’ve seen both paths end well, but that’s up to you. Medical illustration is now largely digital based and requires medical experience or good degrees in human anatomy. So if your portfolio is strong, and you are an illustrator by nature, my vote is learn as many digital art classes as possible that lean on 3D rendering and illustration. Use your natural ability to jump into graphic design and digital art. Who knows where it will take you. I personally am a painter and illustrator, and not to brag, but I’m pretty decent. I can hold my own in the art field. I chose graphic design and fine art degrees and worked as a graphic designer up to a senior creative manager in a global software company. I went back to get my Master in Business Administration and am now in grad school again getting my Education Master in Art Education to be an art teacher to high school students. I want to give back what I learned in my career. And now I’m sharing that with you.
Thank you scott! I appreciate your knowledge!
Cass