|
Job Description: While it may seem like simply an artistic pursuit, being an advertising artist actually requires an understanding of the entire advertising process, as well as the ability to visualize the finished product and capture the essence of the client’s product or service. Advertising artists can be required to create a variety of media, including newspaper ads, websites, corporate identity, or signage.
Salary Range: Salaries for advertising artists can vary wildly based on the location, scope of the project or service, and the marketability of their design style. This industry is very conducive to freelance and contract work; artists who freelance and/or run their own small firms can make upwards of $100,000 annually, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The median salary for artists who work in large advertising agencies is $44,000 annually.
Education: Degrees in graphic design, visual communications, advertising, or marketing, while not always required, will teach the emerging artist industry standards, as well as affording them the ability to think critically and objectively, and deliver high-quality design content. Excellent skills with industry-approved software are required, as is an understanding of typography, imagery, and print production. Additionally, a portfolio of professional-quality work is required so that potential employers can understand your personal design aesthetic.
Outlook: The US Department of Labor predicts 12% industry growth between 2002 and 2012. The business of advertising dominates many aspects of society, and will only increase as technology allows new and innovative products to be created and released.
Personality Traits: The ability to visualize the finished product is key, as is an understanding of current events, popular culture, and current trends in design. Advertising artists must be able to communicate effectively, and create high-quality output that meets the client’s needs.
Career Path: Design Intern > Production Assistant
> Advertising Artist > Art Director
Click here for a complete
overview of all Design Schools and Degrees >>
Click here for a complete overview of Design Programs >>
|
