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4 ways to make a living with your artistic ability

Creativity is an in-demand skill in many industries, and artists can bring their abilities to a variety of careers. At CU, there are opportunities to gain the experience and skills needed for a career in the arts. Here are a few tips for finding your path.

Get involved and collaborate with others

There are many student clubs and organizations on campus with a creative focus. Get started in a campus organization or student group that fits your artistic abilities.

Joining a student group or club can help you develop the skills you’ll need for a career in the arts. These skills include:

  • Collaboration: Artists are able to challenge their abilities and work from different perspectives by learning from others. Collaborating and taking direction from others are important skills that artists need.
  • Time management: Most artists aren’t confined to an office setting and traditional business hours. They will need to be self-disciplined and manage their time effectively to complete projects.
  • Perseverance: An artist’s work doesn’t always meet success on the first try. And sometimes, it’s also met with criticism. Determining which critiques are helpful is an important skill to learn.

Connect with other artists

Whether you’re interested in studio art, photography, performing art, cinematography or writing, make connections with successful artists. Set up an informational interview to ask what their job is like. You can find ways to make these connections at Career Services.

Get experience

Consider submitting your work to local studios, festivals, organizations or the campus journal. You also can develop your skills by volunteering at a local school, museum or art festival. Find these opportunities through:

Explore majors

There are many majors and programs that can help you prepare for a future in the arts. These include:

Learn more about working in the arts.