Sculptors - Online Degrees

Sculptors design three-dimensional works. They model materials such as clay and wax using small tools and their fingers. Some sculptors carve stone or wood using chisels and gouges. Some sculptors cut, bend, and fasten materials such as steel to form works of art.

Qualification:
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. In general, colleges and universities offer more programs outside the subject of art than art schools do.

To teach art in a public school you need a teaching certificate plus a bachelor's degree. Director of arts programs or foundations often have a master's degree.

Salary Range:
Nationally, half of all people employed in this group earn between $20,460 and $42,720 each year.

The national hourly wages for fine artists ranges around $17.20.

Prospects:
Nationally, the number of jobs for fine artists is expected to grow as fast as average through the year 2010.

As the population grows and personal income levels rise, the demand for fine artwork should increase. Competition will remain keen for fine artists who must sell their work to be successful. It will be difficult to show work in galleries because of the number of artists who want to display their work. Talented artists with a mastery of skills will have the best prospects.

Fine artists advance as their work becomes more widely circulated. If an artist can establish a reputation for a particular style, it may become easier to receive commissions for future work. It will also become easier to find art galleries willing to show their work.

With a college education, artists can become administrators for arts organizations or art galleries. They can also teach in high schools, colleges, and universities.