Duties

As an art painter, you can expect to complete the below duties:

• Prepare a surface before starting to paint, which includes using sandpaper, scrapes and wire brushes to get rid of old paint residue, plugging holes with putty, and washing ceilings or walls.
• Consult with clients for more information regarding project plan, like the timeline and assigned budget, type of surface to be painted on, colour scheme envisioned and the finish of the paint needed.
• Assess the job site and make on-site preparations which includes cleaning once the product is complete; this encompasses building scaffolding or covering fixtures to minimise the spread of paint spills and dust from sanding.

Day In The Life

Most dedicated art painters believe their work goes deeper than a job, since it is a lifelong pursuit. You can expect to spend long hours alone, working on paintings at various stages of completion. Some part of your day would also go into performing research regarding the latest trends in fine arts and new ways to express your creative talent through unique symbols or themes. This is a vital part of the daily routine of artists so they can reaffirm their art techniques and find creative inspiration in different perspectives.

Due to the niche community, artists often share studio spaces to work on their projects. So, some part of the day-to-day life will involve interacting with other professionals in the field and exchanging feedback on existing art or passing along potential job opportunities.  A few art painters pursue other work instead of taking this on full-time. For example, teaching art concepts like oil painting, sketching and watercolour, at various educational institutions such as schools and colleges to build others’ artistic capabilities.

Work Schedule

Successful art painters work for long periods of time, up to 50-60 hours per week. Since there are no conventional office timings, artists may also work over the weekends and holidays, especially if there is a specified deadline for an art project. Preparation for an artwork takes a significant part of the time, e.g. preparing the canvas or material, sketching, cleaning required accessories like brushes and knives, framing and mounting. Other responsibilities can require occasional travel, such as teaching art classes, speaking engagements, attending an art club meeting, meeting with clients or delivering a finished painting, conducting research and purchasing necessary materials.

Growth Of The Job

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that painting jobs are predicted to increase by 7% between 2014-2024, which is around the national average for all professions. Those possessing knowledge of multiple art styles will hold an advantage over other aspiring candidates in this career sector. There are a few ways that art painters consider their profession to be successful. For instance, having sold a number of artworks to private collectors or companies, displaying one’s work of art at leading art galleries and companies in the area, and being hired at a full-time position such as at a museum or gallery for the role of archivist, curator or art director.

Typical Employers

As a professional art painter, you can expect to work for independent contractor companies, construction and urban development businesses, government building authorities, building management institutions, cultural institutions like libraries, universities and museums, or private clients.