There is one thing that connects all artists: the desire to create something original and meaningful. Whether it's making an object out of clay, wood or metal, painting a landscape or creating a three-dimensional work of art, the end goal is the same: to bring something new into the world. But that drive for meaning does not mean that you have to leave your dreams of a steady paycheck behind! The skills you learn in the College of Fine Arts are applicable for many career fields in and out of the art scene.
Music isn't a hobby for Jacob Wolfe; it's a passion. At Western Michigan University he found a path to turn that passion into a career.
According to Indeed.com, some of the most sought-after skills hiring managers search for are:
- Communication skills
- Interpersonal skills
- Learning and adaptability
- Organizational skills
- Problem-solving
- Open-mindedness
An art degree isn't just about being creative, it can open up doors to many opportunities. With an art degree, you'll develop communication and job skills that will help you succeed in any career. You'll learn how to think critically and creatively, which are essential for any industry. You'll also be able to apply your creative problem-solving skills to a variety of situations. With an art degree, the possibilities are endless.
The wealth of art careers that our graduates have chosen to pursue is vast and varied, ranging from artists, interior designers, performers, movie special effects artists, dancers and choreographers, costume designers, textile artists, educators and administrators, to entrepreneurs who have started their own companies or work for themselves.
Careers in art
An art degree offers a broad range of career options for individuals with passion, creativity and dedication to what they do. While many people may think of traditional art careers such as painting or sculpting, there are countless other fields where an art degree can be put to use. From theater and dance to music and design, the arts offer exciting and fulfilling career paths. We've compiled 16 unique career ideas for individuals with an art degree, showcasing the diverse opportunities available for those who want to use their creativity to make a living.
Art therapist
An art therapist uses different forms of art to help patients express their emotions and work through psychological or emotional problems. They may work in hospitals, schools, mental health clinics, or private practice. Art therapists may also work with people who have physical disabilities or chronic illnesses, using art to help them cope with their conditions.
Choreographer
Choreographers create and organize dance sequences for theater productions, music videos, or live performances. They collaborate with directors, dancers, and other creative professionals to develop the choreography that enhances the story and emotions portrayed on stage. Choreographers may also work as dance teachers or instructors.
User experience (UX) designer
UX designers use their creativity to design digital interfaces that are visually appealing, easy to use, and engaging. They work in industries ranging from tech to healthcare to finance, collaborating with developers, product managers, and other designers to create intuitive and user-friendly products. UX designers may also conduct user research to gather insights and feedback to inform their design decisions.
Exhibition designer
Exhibition designers create visual displays for museums, galleries, and other public spaces to showcase art and artifacts. They collaborate with curators, architects, and other designers to create immersive and engaging exhibits. Exhibition designers may also be responsible for designing graphics, signage, and other materials to enhance the visitor experience.
Art director
Art directors are responsible for the overall visual look of a project, whether it's a movie, a magazine, a book, or an advertising campaign. They work with designers, writers, photographers, and other creative professionals to create a cohesive and compelling visual identity for their project. Art directors may also be involved in hiring and managing creative teams.
Interior designer
Interior designers use their knowledge of color, texture, and composition to create beautiful and functional living spaces for their clients. They may work on residential or commercial projects, collaborating with architects, contractors, and other professionals to bring their designs to life. Interior designers may also specialize in areas such as hospitality design, healthcare design, or sustainable design.
Theatre set designer
Set designers are responsible for creating the visual world of a play, including the scenery, props, and lighting. They work closely with directors and producers to develop a concept for the production and create designs that bring that concept to life.
Concept artist
Concept artists create sketches and drawings of characters, environments, and objects for video games, movies, and other visual media. They collaborate with directors, producers, and other artists to develop the visual style and tone of a project. Concept artists may also create storyboards or animatics to help visualize a project.
Graphic designer
Graphic designers use typography, images, and color to create visual designs for websites, logos, and other marketing materials. They work in a variety of industries, including advertising, publishing, and branding. Graphic designers may also be responsible for creating infographics, illustrations, or animations to convey complex information or concepts.
Art educator
Art educators teach students of all ages how to create and appreciate art, whether it's painting, drawing, sculpture, or another medium. They may work in schools, community centers, or museums, developing lesson plans and activities that engage and inspire students. Art educators may also teach workshops or classes for adults or work as private art tutors.
Art appraiser
Art appraisers use their knowledge of art history and current market trends to determine the value of artworks for collectors, museums, and galleries. They may work independently or for a firm, conducting research, examining artworks, and preparing reports on their findings. Art appraisers may also provide consulting services to help clients build their art collections.
Costume designer
Costume designers are responsible for designing and creating costumes for theater productions, movies, and TV shows. They work closely with directors, producers, and actors to create costumes that reflect the characters' personalities, settings, and time periods. Costume designers may also be involved in managing the costume budget and coordinating fittings and alterations.
Music therapist
Music therapists use music to help patients achieve physical, emotional, and mental wellness. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and mental health clinics. Music therapists may use singing, playing instruments, or listening to music to help patients with conditions such as anxiety, depression, or dementia.
Sound designer
Sound designers create and mix sound effects, music, and dialogue for theater productions, movies, and video games. They work closely with directors, composers, and audio engineers to create a soundscape that enhances the story and emotions portrayed on screen or stage. Sound designers may also be involved in recording and editing sound effects and dialogue.
Composer
Composers create original music for theater productions, movies, TV shows, or video games. They work closely with directors, producers, and musicians to create music that reflects the story, characters, and emotions portrayed in the project. Composers may also be involved in conducting and recording the music they have created.
Lighting designer
Lighting designers are responsible for designing and executing lighting plans for theater productions, concerts, and other live events. They work closely with directors, set designers, and electricians to create lighting that enhances the mood, atmosphere, and emotions.
How WMU alumni use their art degree
It can be hard to figure out the right career path to take after college. But there are so many success stories of alumni who have gone on to make a name for themselves in various industries. Not sure what path you will pursue? Maybe you will follow the footsteps of these Broncos!
Actor: Victoria Blade, Acting '10
Artistic Director: Marlo Martin, Dance, '03
Color and Materials Designer: Danialle Baumgarder, Product Design '21
Conductor: Scott Terrell, Music Education
Costume Designer: Adam Stocker, Theatre Design and Technical Production '17
Creative Director, Football: Blaze Watson, Graphic Design '19
Broadway performer: Crystal Lucas-Perry, Theatre Performance '10
Dance and movement photographer: Ashley Deran, Dance '12
Environmental Graphic Design: Nicco Raddatz, Graphic Design '10
Film Editor: Scott Jacobs, Theatre Performance '03
Graphic Designer: Lynnae Strait, Graphic Design '19
Illustrator: Ellen VanderMyde, Art '17
Industrial Designer: Jake Faculak, Product Design '21
Lithographer: Michael Sims, Art '68
Makeup Artist: Ellen Arden, Photography and Intermedia '12
Muralist: Kylie Thomas, Printmedia '20
Musical Theatre Performance: Este'fan Kizer, Musical Theatre Performance '15
Musician: Eddie Codrington, Jazz Studies '20
Songwriter: Miggie Snyder, Musical Theatre Performance, '19
Theatre educator: Lisa Dobbin, Theatre Performance, '98
TikTok Creator: Natalie Burdick, Musical Theatre Performance '19
Trombone professor: Hana Beloglavec, Music Performance, '11
There are many reasons to get an art education at Western Michigan University, including the wide range of career choices you can pursue with a fine arts degree.