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[Reuploaded] This is Why Most Artists Fail to Get a Job - Time Do Something About It!
🕑 Added 2024-02-22 12:32:38 +0000 UTCHey everyone!
I accidentally deleted this post, so here you have it again.
Working as an artist is not an easy task. The competition is fierce, and it's often unclear what the best strategy is for securing a job, especially since we all face unique challenges. In today's article, I'd like to discuss the most common reasons why artists fail to secure employment and offer some straightforward solutions. Take a moment to read through perhaps you'll find the reason you're in this predicament. Let's dive in.
Lack of Marketable Skills and Specialization
Many artists struggle to find jobs because they lack the skills currently in demand. This includes proficiency in creating art in specific styles and using the latest software. For instance, in concept art, it's increasingly important to know how to use 3D modeling programs like Blender or ZBrush. If you're not using these tools/softwares, at least a solid understanding of how to create three-dimensional designs in Photoshop is essential. This three-dimensional understanding, coupled with these tools, helps create designs for video games or animations, a common request from clients due to production constraints.
Another example, from a different field such as illustration, is that in the past, artists used to produce using traditional tools only but once digital tools arrived a new set of skills and opportunities were unlocked. Adaptation was not strictly necessary for everyone, as some artists still make a buck out of traditional tools, but keep in mind that technical skills can be a limitation.
Now you are probably asking what to do about it?. Well, I think the problem is not lack of information, as there's way too much free stuff on the internet. The current problem is what to actually focus on and then having patience to polish the skill, this can be addressed by a mix of self-awareness and research.
- Self-awareness in order to understand where you want to work doing what and then putting the work to practice constantly until you reach a similar level required for the task.
- Research in order to know exactly what tools and expectations the job requires. The clearer your direction about production processes the better the chances of learning the proper tools.
In my case, my field of expertise does not require to learn 3D tools but needs to provide three-dimensional ideas through sketches from time to time, so if this is something you lack consider learning a new software in order to streamline the process since improving shapes might take a little extra. If you are like me and want to draw everything, no worries, pay a specific focus on posts about shapes like in the "Shapes Collection"
But If the example of 3D shapes provided for this point does not relate to the expectations of the industry in which you would like to land a job through your skill sets, just DM me and let's work on some solutions.
Weak Portfolio or Misaligned Portfolio
Maybe your field of expertise does not require for you to learn a new tool or skill but often a common reason artists struggle to find work is due to a portfolio that either fails to showcase their best work or does not align with the specific needs of the employers. Some artists might not tailor their portfolio to the job they are applying for, making it difficult for potential employers to see their suitability for the role.
I've discussed this topic in the past quite a few times and often goes around understanding what your goal is, not only skill-related, already addressed in the previous point, but also the concept behind the field, industry, product, or studio had. Making a thoughtful research on this subject can make your portfolio clear, here are some articles you might like to read:
Concept Art Portfolio Direction! A Guide for Lost Artists
Best Colours Based on Game Genres - Portfolio Building
Search for more topics like this in the search bar writing "portfolio" or "jobs". If you still have doubts about what direction, DM me with your goal and we can brainstorm some ideas.
Poor Networking and Visibility
You might have great skills and an outstanding portfolio for that job, but if no one sees you, no one will pay for it. Also, I've known many artists with a very insufficient portfolio, yet, well connected, nailing jobs just based on social interactions.
Jobs in the art industry are often obtained through networking and personal connections. Artists who fail to effectively market themselves or network within the industry can struggle to find opportunities. This includes both online presence on social media and portfolio websites, as well as in-person networking at industry events, conventions, and galleries.
This is an important point I often get asked for, which is, "How I gain popularity" or "visibility", with the goal of nailing a job, but it is important to pay attention to the first two points already addressed in order to make that visibility really useful. Once you understand what skills are required for the job, developed some ideas in relation to the goal using those skills, consider reading these articles to market your art or get in touch with other professionals or future employees:
Art Career Master Class Part 3: Discovering New Job Opportunities
How I Developed My Art Style: Understanding 'Popular' Art + My Secret to Staying Relevant!
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Conclusion
Getting a job is about understanding what the needs of your employer are, casting a portfolio that gets in tune with those needs, and either increasing visibility or sending the portfolio right to the opportunities. Remember to think even beyond what's expected as if not, you might need to compete with too many people who came to the same conclusion that you.
Again, I'm here to help, just reach out and let's think in some strategies.
Tomorrow, I'll be sharing the process video of this piece along with the files and insights. They will be available for Mastering Maestro tier and above. Feel free to upgrade if you want more insights about my work.
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