High school diploma or GED

Bachelor's of Fine Arts

Master's of Fine Arts

Many years of artistic training and practice

You do not need formal training to become an artist. However, most artists receive formal training of one sort or another. Many artists earn a bachelor's (BFA) or master's (MFA) degree in fine arts. Course work usually includes art design, history, and studio art. Art schools offer degree programs and studio training in fine arts.

May work part time or full time

May work more than eight hours a day to meet deadlines

May have flexible schedules

FINE ARTISTS will:

Are painters, sculptors, illustrators, and printmakers

Work independently and are highly creative

Often work other jobs

Have years of training and practice

FINE ARTISTS frequently:

Use hands to handle, control, or feel objects or tools

Sit or stand when painting or sculpting

Repeat the same motions

It is important that FINE ARTISTS be able to:

Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm

Use hands or fingers to grasp, move, or assemble objects

See differences between colors, shades, and brightness

See details of objects that are less than a few feet away

Understand the speech of another person

Speak clearly so listeners can understand