Exploring Non-Traditional Career Paths in Art and Design: Opportunities and Tips

My art career started many decades ago, beginning with graphic art and extensive studies in layout design before the widespread use of computers. Throughout my educational journey, my interest in Interior Design and Architecture led me to an architectural/Interior Design college. There, I delved into learning about structure, space planning, and historical architectural drawing, significantly enhancing my artistic and technical skills. Despite starting in a specific field, I now find myself considering a pivot into technical arts such as engineering and architecture. Here are some insightful tips and career paths for fellow visual artists like me.

Preparing for a Pivot into Technical Arts

With a year left in your BFA program, it's essential to start preparing for a career pivot towards technical arts like engineering and architecture. Here are some steps to consider:

1. Broaden Your Knowledge Base

Engage in courses or online tutorials that cover fundamental engineering principles and architectural techniques. Special emphasize should be placed on structural integrity, material science, and sustainability, as these are crucial in both fields.

2. Develop Your Technical Skills

Practice using CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software and learn programming languages like Python, C , and JavaScript. These tools are indispensable in the technical arts and can significantly enhance your visual skills.

3. Build a Portfolio

Create a portfolio that showcases your graphic design and illustration skills, alongside examples of your technical work. This portfolio can help demonstrate your adaptability and interdisciplinary skills to potential employers in technical arts.

4. Network and Seek Opportunities

Attend industry events, join professional groups, and network with professionals in your desired field. This can provide valuable insights and opportunities for collaboration and employment.

Flexible Career Paths in Art and Design

While pivoting towards technical arts, it's important to consider alternative career paths that leverage your existing skills in art and design. Here are some interesting options:

1. Interior Designer

What You'll Do: Interior design involves creating aesthetically pleasing and functional living and working spaces. This role requires a keen eye for color, lighting, and functionality.

How You'll Use Your Degree: Learn different software like AutoCAD and Revit, and collaborate with architects and engineers to bring designs to life.

Why You'll Love It: Interior designers have the opportunity to positively impact people's lives by helping them create their perfect homes. Witnessing your designs come to life is a rewarding experience.

Revenue Potential: Starting salary can range from ￡24,000 to ￡24,000 in the first few years.

2. Art Director

What You'll Do: Art directors coordinate creative teams to design ads, layouts, and other marketing materials.

How You'll Use Your Degree: Leverage your skills in using software like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, working closely with marketing professionals.

Why You'll Love It: Art directors enjoy working with diverse teams and creating compelling visual content. You'll have the freedom to come up with new ideas and contribute to a wide range of projects.

Revenue Potential: Art directors can earn more than ￡35,000, with experience and location playing a significant role.

3. Fashion Designer

What You'll Do: Fashion designers are responsible for creating clothing and accessories, often working with fashion labels or styling designers.

How You'll Use Your Degree: Your eye for detail and understanding of trends can be crucial in this field. Be prepared to work with various constraints and trends.

Why You'll Love It: Fashion designers are passionate about creating unique pieces of clothing and accessories. If you love shopping and keeping up with trends, fashion design can be a fulfilling career.

Revenue Potential: Salaries can range from ￡25,000 to ￡35,000, though this can vary widely.

4. User Experience (UX) Designer

What You'll Do: UX designers improve the user experience of websites, apps, and software interfaces.

How You'll Use Your Degree: If your degree covered prototyping and programming, you'll be well-prepared for UX design.

Why You'll Love It: UX designers work with a variety of professionals, from designers to developers, and are at the forefront of tech innovation. This role is perfect if you enjoy working on user-centric projects.

Revenue Potential: Experienced UX designers can earn up to ￡50,000, with consultants earning more.

5. Industrial Designer

What You'll Do: Industrial designers create functional and aesthetic items like furniture, appliances, and even cars.

How You'll Use Your Degree: Strong CAD and prototyping skills are essential. This role requires a blend of creativity and practical knowledge.

Why You'll Love It: Industrial designers work in a fast-paced environment, thinking about design 24/7. This role is excellent for those who enjoy being in the center of creativity.

Revenue Potential: Salary ranges from ￡20,000 to ￡30,000, though it can vary based on the company or brands you design for.

6. Graphic Designer

What You'll Do: Graphic designers work on a range of projects including logos, illustrations, and advertisements, merging them into a cohesive brand identity.

How You'll Use Your Degree: Your creative skills and understanding of marketing principles can help you become an effective graphic designer. Coding skills can also be a significant asset.

Why You'll Love It: Graphic designers have the opportunity to work with various types of businesses, constantly learning and evolving their skills. This role is in high demand and offers excellent growth potential.

Revenue Potential: Starting salaries are around ￡23,000, with freelancers and consultants earning more.

7. Multimedia Artist

What You'll Do: Multimedia artists use special effects, video games, and other media forms to bring ideas to life. They often work with other artists and need a solid grasp of coding and animation software.

How You'll Use Your Degree: If your design degree covered programming and animation software, you may have the skills to become a multimedia artist or animator.

Why You'll Love It: Multimedia artists have the unique opportunity to work on a wide range of projects, from animating tigers to creating interactive experiences. This role offers a lot of creative freedom and fun.

Revenue Potential: Salaries start at ￡20,000 to ￡25,000, with larger projects being better funded.