Median annual wages of salaried art directors were $76,980 in May 2008. The
middle 50 percent earned between $54,490 and $108,090. The lowest 10 percent
earned less than $40,730, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $154,840.
Median annual wages were $80,170 in advertising, public relations and related
services.
Median annual wages of salaried craft artists were $29,080. The middle 50
percent earned between $20,730 and $39,120. The lowest 10 percent earned less
than $16,290, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $54,550.
Median annual wages of salaried fine artists, including painters, sculptors,
and illustrators, were $42,650. The middle 50 percent earned between $29,230 and
$60,650. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $20,780, and the highest 10
percent earned more than $83,410.
Median annual wages of salaried multimedia artists and animators were
$56,330. The middle 50 percent earned between $41,710 and $77,010. The lowest 10
percent earned less than $31,570, and the highest 10 percent earned more than
$100,390. Median annual wages were $65,600 in motion picture and video
industries, and $52,530 in advertising and related services.
Earnings for self-employed artists vary widely. Some charge only a nominal
fee while they gain experience and build a reputation for their work. Others,
such as well-established freelance fine artists and illustrators, can earn more
than salaried artists. Many, however, find it difficult to rely solely on income
earned from selling paintings or other works of art. Like other self-employed
workers, freelance artists must provide their own benefits.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor,
Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition
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