Fine artist: Entry requirements

Some fine artists do not have professional qualifications and may have started producing their own work after discovering their talent. However, to have an increased chance of success it is useful to be formally trained and to take relevant qualifications.

Degree subjects that can aid you with becoming an artist include:

• fine art;
• visual art and communication;
• art history and fine art: contemporary theory and practice;
• interdisciplinary fine art;
• art and associated crafts;
• art criticism;
• critical fine art;
• design for performance;
• public art;
• sound art.

Fine art can be studied in many forms including painting, new media, photography, printmaking and sculpture.

It is possible to study art as part of a combined honours degree programme, usually with a humanities or another creative subject. These may include performance, history of art, arts administration, education and community studies.

Fine art graduates can go on to further study in art and design at postgraduate level, completing an MA or MFA (Master of Fine Arts). This may help to increase prices for work, although this still largely depends on your talent and skills.

It is possible to enter work as a fine artist without a degree. Some artists learn through a combination of short courses such as evening or weekend classes, one-week intensive courses and other qualifications such as diplomas or certificates.

Potential candidates need to show evidence of the following:

• determination and commitment;
• self-belief;
• idea development;
• good visual communication skills;
• technical ability;
• good verbal communication skills;
• organisation skills and the ability to meet deadlines;
• research skills;
• ability to work independently and with others;
• willingness to put in long hours.

Recent fine art graduates have usually completed some relevant work experience, work shadowing or voluntary work in the creative industries.

Fine art is a highly competitive field with many more graduating students and artists than there are formal opportunities to exhibit. It is up to the resourceful artist to create their own opportunities and to seek out new and interesting places to show and sell their work, such as artist-led spaces, bars, museums, shops, events and public spaces. However, gallery owners, curators and private collectors are always looking for new artists with exceptional talent who they think are collectable and would produce a good show.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.