Necessary Art Degree: Exploring Career Paths Without a Formal Education

If your intention is to make money, art is not the wisest choice of career. However, an art degree is not meaningless. All an artist requires is the ability to visualize and plenty of practice.

Why an Art Degree Can Be Beneficial

While you can pursue a career in art without a degree, an art degree can certainly broaden your horizons. Here are a few ways a degree can help:

Understanding Art History: Learn about the evolution of art and its significance. Compositions and Visual Theories: Gain insights into the core principles of art. Interactions with Peers: Engage with other students to enhance your skills and broaden your intellect. Qualified Guidance: Benefit from the guidance of experienced instructors to achieve faster results through sustained practice and classes.

In my student days, access to resources was limited. However, with the advent of the internet, especially YouTube, self-improvement is more accessible than ever. You can practice basic foundation art skills at home with minimal investment.

Self-Taught Artists: Success Without a Degree

There are countless self-taught artists who have achieved success without ever stepping foot inside an art school. Here are a few examples:

YouTube Tutorials: Follow detailed video tutorials to learn painting, ceramics, or other art techniques. Drafting and Drawing: Improve your illustration and drawing skills with online resources. Certificates and Diplomas: If you want to take your skills one step further, enrolling in a Certificate or Diploma course can be beneficial. However, these are often recognized as craft-based studies rather than purely academic endeavors.

Adding a history of art to your studies can elevate your pursuit to a more academic path.

Is an Art Degree Worth It Financially?

No, if you consider the financial aspect, spending up to $120,000 on an education for the arts is not a wise investment. It’s better to survive without the debt and let your passion drive your pursuit rather than being burdened with a large debt to pay off.

However, the decision to pursue a degree or not also depends on your approach to art. Are you a traditionalist, or do you prefer a more experimental and creative path?

Artistic Paths for Traditionalists and Humanists

For traditionalists, formal studies at a specialized art school or university may introduce you to new ideas, techniques, and materials. These programs can provide a strong foundation in the principles and techniques of art.

For those who are more humanistic, consider Outsider Art, which is a term coined by art historians Jean Dubuffet and Paul Klee. Outsider Art refers to art created by people who are largely untrained and outside the established art community. Artists like Paul Klee and Jean Dubuffet exemplify this path, where they developed their own unique style and techniques.

While traditional art education can provide a structured framework, the self-taught approach offers unparalleled freedom and experimentation. Ultimately, the choice should be driven by your personal passion and goals.