3 answers
Jah'Zyrah
Student
Miami Gardens, Florida
1
Question
Asked
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When pursuing one's artistic goals, is it preferable to work for someone else or to start your own business Does the choice differ by art processes and majors??
I am a high school senior planning on pursuing a career in the arts. For college, I may major in fine or studio arts. After I obtain my bachelor's degree, would it be best to own my own business or to get a job as an artist?
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3 answers
seyed hamid hosseini raviz
www.taravat.com
17
Answers
Karaj, Alborz Province, Iran
Updated
seyed hamid’s Answer
Hello. I’m glad that you are interested in art. In response to your question, I believe it helps to divide the subject into two clear paths.
The first is the design of an artistic phenomenon that arises from thought, creativity, and imagination—something that requires its own practice and study. The second is the creation of a unique idea, which results in an artwork that demands the skill of an artist’s hands to transform that idea into a tangible piece.
From this perspective, working in the studios of successful artists—those who have managed to establish a place for their work in the market—seems like a wise decision. In such environments, one can experiment with new techniques, refine manual skills, and even witness the evolution of ideas from their inception to their maturation and eventual realization as a finished artwork, becoming part of the creative process itself.
Of course, the intensity of this experience varies across different mediums. For example, a painter interested in classical styles might spend just a few hours each month in another artist’s studio to gain valuable experience. In contrast, a student of sculpture may find that even several large and small projects developed over years are not enough to fully satisfy their learning journey.
Ultimately, the main goal is for a person—both mentally and technically—to reach a point where they can transform their creative visions into lasting works of art. In the end, art can become a way of life: beautiful, passionate, and proud, filling every moment with joy and hope.
Once again, congratulations on your choice.
The first is the design of an artistic phenomenon that arises from thought, creativity, and imagination—something that requires its own practice and study. The second is the creation of a unique idea, which results in an artwork that demands the skill of an artist’s hands to transform that idea into a tangible piece.
From this perspective, working in the studios of successful artists—those who have managed to establish a place for their work in the market—seems like a wise decision. In such environments, one can experiment with new techniques, refine manual skills, and even witness the evolution of ideas from their inception to their maturation and eventual realization as a finished artwork, becoming part of the creative process itself.
Of course, the intensity of this experience varies across different mediums. For example, a painter interested in classical styles might spend just a few hours each month in another artist’s studio to gain valuable experience. In contrast, a student of sculpture may find that even several large and small projects developed over years are not enough to fully satisfy their learning journey.
Ultimately, the main goal is for a person—both mentally and technically—to reach a point where they can transform their creative visions into lasting works of art. In the end, art can become a way of life: beautiful, passionate, and proud, filling every moment with joy and hope.
Once again, congratulations on your choice.
Hello, I appreciate your response! I made the choice on focusing in the arts and refining that passion plenty of years ago. The thought of entrepreneurship crossed my mind after realizing that a person pretty much needs to possess the qualities of an entrepreneur in any type of job and/or career path. Thank you for your answer, once again. I have noticed that many artists start as apprentices and either remain so or branch off into their own brand years later, even one of my art teachers has done so! I will remain attentive and adhere to your advice as I prepare for my future.
Jah'Zyrah
Hello. As a suggestion, I would like to draw your attention to the definitions and explanations offered by great figures in the world of art, such as Leonardo da Vinci and others, regarding the three words “art,” “artist,” and “artwork.” These definitions may differ from one another, and such distinctions can inspire you to reflect and arrive at new interpretations of these three concepts. Building and organizing your mental framework will surely lead you toward achieving your aspirations. Stay joyful, creative, and inquisitive.
seyed hamid hosseini raviz
Thank you! Have a great day!
Jah'Zyrah
Karina Mora
Prepress Specialist
2
Answers
Tucson, Arizona
Updated
Karina’s Answer
There is not a preference on which is better. However, right out of high-school there is so much more you can learn from others in business. Once you are comfortable with how you would like to run things you can definitely branch off. There is also a third option perhaps. You can work for others while have a small website where you work for commission or freelance. Both paths can give you so many lessons that school wouldn't really teach you. Hope that helps good luck!
I understand, thank you so much! The third option reminds me of gigging, where I would be able to work for someone else while additionally having that small brand to manage on my own. I will be looking into your suggestions as the future approaches, thanks again.
Jah'Zyrah
Kim Matthews
Graphic Production Designer and Sculptor
109
Answers
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Hello Jah'Zyrah,
If you can get an apprenticeship or internship with an artist or studio in an area of interest, I'd prioritize that. You'll learn so much about how to manage a studio as well as the creative workload if you can break things into chunks. Plus you won't have to be financially responsible for everything, so it will be a lot less stressful as long as you have sources of income. Studio assistant jobs are often not very exciting, but you learn what it means to have a functioning professional studio practice, and there are networking opportunities you might not otherwise have. You might want to read or watch some artist interviews or biographies to get an idea of how some studio artists worked their way from assistant to having an independent practice.
Self-employment is grueling and takes a lot of time, effort, and know-how. Being extroverted will help a great deal, because you have to be able to market yourself effectively. Will you work in a niche where you mostly have one-off projects, or be able to foster strong client relationships with people who give you repeat business and/or referrals? If, as Karina said, you build a portfolio website that showcases your skills and experience, that will help you get work. You can also market on social media and enter exhibitions and competitions, as well as apply for grants. But again, all this takes time.
Keep your eyes open for opportunities everywhere. You never know who you'll meet and what might become of a chance encounter.
And yes--some media are more collaborative, like printmaking, glassblowing, and metal casting, so it's important to figure out whether you like the camaraderie and dynamism of working in a shop, or you're more solitary and would prefer to be a painter, for example. Sculpture can offer the best of both worlds depending on whether you're interested in making small objects or want to get into large-scale works as well.
Hope this helps!
If you can get an apprenticeship or internship with an artist or studio in an area of interest, I'd prioritize that. You'll learn so much about how to manage a studio as well as the creative workload if you can break things into chunks. Plus you won't have to be financially responsible for everything, so it will be a lot less stressful as long as you have sources of income. Studio assistant jobs are often not very exciting, but you learn what it means to have a functioning professional studio practice, and there are networking opportunities you might not otherwise have. You might want to read or watch some artist interviews or biographies to get an idea of how some studio artists worked their way from assistant to having an independent practice.
Self-employment is grueling and takes a lot of time, effort, and know-how. Being extroverted will help a great deal, because you have to be able to market yourself effectively. Will you work in a niche where you mostly have one-off projects, or be able to foster strong client relationships with people who give you repeat business and/or referrals? If, as Karina said, you build a portfolio website that showcases your skills and experience, that will help you get work. You can also market on social media and enter exhibitions and competitions, as well as apply for grants. But again, all this takes time.
Keep your eyes open for opportunities everywhere. You never know who you'll meet and what might become of a chance encounter.
And yes--some media are more collaborative, like printmaking, glassblowing, and metal casting, so it's important to figure out whether you like the camaraderie and dynamism of working in a shop, or you're more solitary and would prefer to be a painter, for example. Sculpture can offer the best of both worlds depending on whether you're interested in making small objects or want to get into large-scale works as well.
Hope this helps!
This helps a lot, thank you! I honestly have noticed that many artists start as assistants then branch off into their own. It is true that some media are more collaborative, too! I see myself working on smaller pieces that'll consist of independently painting, drawing, or combining photos digitally. Lastly, I know that it is a lot to be self-employed, so it would not be best. I am satisfied with the responses that I have been receiving. Thank you so much!
Jah'Zyrah