Do you like to create things or draw? Do you enjoy writing music or singing? Pursuing a career in the arts can be tremendously satisfying but often requires outside-the-box thinking. A degree program is usually not as important as a strong portfolio of high-quality work. Many artists supplement their income through teaching, leading workshops and selling their work online.

On this page you can learn more about how to make a living in the arts as well as information on specific careers and where you can obtain training or educational experience. ​

​Want to learn more about other types of careers? Check out our "Careers by Interest Area" page here!
RIASEC Categories: ​Artistic, Enterprising

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Get Experience Now!

You can get experience in this field in the following ways:
  • Take art-related CTE courses at your local high school, such as Digital Arts or Graphic Design. 
  • Take art classes from a local organization like the Chico Art Center. 
  • Create art, music or write on your own! Experiment with different types, genres, materials and styles. 
  • Follow artists on social media to learn more about their process.
  • Do Internet research on how artists in the field you are interested in make a living. 
  • Listen to podcasts on art and artists. 

Career Videos

Video Game Designer
Graphic Designer
Producers and Directors
Makeup Artist

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