10 Tips to Land an Art Job with No Experience

Published on 1 August 2023 9 min read

Build a strong portfolio
Network effectively
Volunteer at art organizations
Apply for art internships
Keep up with industry news
Study and practice regularly
Showcase your work online
Learn from established artists
Tailor your resume for each job
Stay persistent and resilient

Whether you're fresh out of school or making a career switch, landing your first job in art may seem like a daunting task, especially if you don't have any experience under your belt. But before you start to panic, take a deep breath and remember: everyone starts somewhere. The key is knowing how to get a job in art with no experience, and luckily, we've got you covered with 10 practical tips to help you on your journey.

Build a strong portfolio

First things first: you need to show potential employers what you're capable of, and the best way to do that is with a strong portfolio. Your portfolio is your visual resume, showcasing your skills and creativity. Here's how you can build a portfolio that stands out—even if you don't have any professional art experience.

Include personal projects: Maybe you don't have any work experience, but you've probably created art in your spare time. Include these projects in your portfolio! They'll highlight your skills and show employers that you're passionate about art.
Create mock-ups: Create pieces based on hypothetical projects. For example, design a book cover for your favorite novel or sketch a storyboard for an imaginary short film. These mock-ups demonstrate your initiative and ability to apply your skills in a practical context.
Document your process: Don't just show the end product—show how you got there. Include sketches, drafts, and notes to give a sense of your creative process. This can be especially interesting to potential employers, as it provides insight into how you approach and solve problems.

Above all, remember that quality trumps quantity. It's better to have a few outstanding pieces than a large collection of mediocre work. So take your time, do your best work, and soon enough, you'll have a portfolio that can help you get a job in art with no experience.

Network effectively

When looking to land a job in art with no experience, networking can prove to be a gold mine. It's not just about who you know, but who knows you. So, how can you network effectively?

Attend local art events: Art shows, gallery openings, and community workshops are all great places to meet other artists and professionals in the art industry. These events can provide an opportunity to learn about job openings, collaborate on projects, or simply get some advice from those who have been in your shoes.
Join online communities: Platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and art-specific forums can be great places to connect with other artists and industry professionals. Follow, comment, and engage with others in your field. Who knows? Your next job opportunity might come from someone you meet online.
Reach out directly: If there's a particular artist, gallery, or organization you admire, don't hesitate to reach out to them. Send a polite email expressing your admiration for their work and your interest in learning from them. You might be surprised how willing people are to help when you show genuine interest.

Remember, networking is more about building relationships than asking for favors. Be genuine, respectful, and willing to give before you take. Done right, networking can open doors you never even knew existed and can be a powerful tool in learning how to get a job in art with no experience.

Volunteer at art organizations

While you might not have professional experience, volunteering at art organizations can provide valuable exposure to the art world. Not only will you learn a lot, but you'll also make connections and even add some valuable points to your resume. But how do you go about this?

Find local art organizations: Start with a simple online search for art organizations in your area. These could be galleries, museums, or art education centers. Find out if they have any volunteer opportunities available. Sometimes, all it takes is a simple phone call or email to get started.
Offer your skills: If you have a particular skill, such as graphic design or social media management, offer it. Organizations often need help with these tasks, and your contribution could be invaluable.
Learn and grow: As a volunteer, you'll have a unique chance to learn about the inner workings of an art organization, understand how exhibitions are put together, and even pick up some knowledge about different art forms and techniques.

Volunteering might not pay you in cash, but it pays you in experience, connections, and knowledge—all of which are essential if you're wondering how to get a job in art with no experience.

Apply for art internships

Internships can be a golden ticket when it comes to how to get a job in art with no experience. They provide hands-on experience, industry knowledge and networking opportunities. But where do you start?

Research potential internships: Many art museums, galleries, and even art-focused companies offer internships. You can find these opportunities on job websites or the organizations' own websites. Look for internships that align with your interests and career goals.
Prepare a standout application: Most internships will require you to submit a resume and cover letter. Make sure yours stand out by highlighting your passion for art, any relevant skills or experiences (like that volunteer work you did), and why you're a good fit for the internship.
Interview preparation: If you get called for an interview, spend time preparing. This isn't just about rehearsing answers to common interview questions. It's also about understanding the organization, what it does, and how you can contribute.

Internships are an excellent stepping stone into the art industry. They give you a taste of the professional world, build your skills, and help you make valuable connections. So, don't hesitate—dive into the pool of opportunities!

Keep up with industry news

Staying updated with the art industry is like having a secret weapon in your pursuit of how to get a job in art with no experience. It gives you insights into current trends, renowned artists, upcoming exhibitions, and more. Here's how you can stay on top of it:

Subscribe to art magazines and blogs: Publications like ArtNews, The Art Newspaper, and blogs like Colossal keep you updated on the latest happenings in the art world.
Follow art influencers and organizations on social media: Many artists, galleries, and museums have a strong online presence. Following them on platforms like Instagram or Twitter can keep you in the loop.
Attend art events and exhibitions: These are not only great for experiencing art firsthand but also for networking with industry professionals.

Knowledge is power, right? Staying informed about the industry shows your commitment to art, making you more attractive to potential employers. Plus, you never know when a piece of news might spark a conversation in an interview or provide inspiration for your next project!

Study and practice regularly

Imagine trying to play in a basketball game without knowing the rules or practicing free throws. Sounds challenging, right? Similarly, diving into the art world without regular study and practice can be a tough row to hoe. But don't worry, here are some handy tips on how to get a job in art with no experience by honing your skills and expanding your knowledge:

Enroll in art classes or workshops: This can be a local community center class or an online course from platforms like Coursera or Skillshare. These platforms offer a wide range of art courses taught by experienced artists.
Make art a daily habit: Whether it's sketching during your lunch break or painting for an hour each evening, regular practice is key to improving your skills. Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day!
Read art books: Books by renowned artists like Leonardo da Vinci's "Notebooks" or Austin Kleon's "Steal Like An Artist" can offer invaluable insights.

Remember, the more you learn and practice, the more your artistic skills will blossom. And before you know it, you'll be creating artwork that makes people stop and say, "Wow! Who made this?"

Showcase your work online

Now that you're regularly studying and practicing art, it's time to show off your masterpieces to the world. How? By showcasing your work online! It's like setting up your very own virtual art exhibition. And no, it's not as intimidating as it sounds! Here are some steps on how to get a job in art with no experience by displaying your work on the internet:

Create a digital portfolio: Websites like Behance or Dribbble allow you to upload your artwork, providing a platform for potential employers to view your talent. It’s like having your own art gallery, but open 24/7 to anyone around the world.
Use Social Media: Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook are great platforms for artists. Regularly posting your work helps you connect with other artists, gain exposure, and attract potential employers.
Start a blog: While showcasing your artwork, a blog allows you to express your thoughts and processes behind each piece. It gives viewers a glimpse into your artistic journey.

Remember, showcasing your work online isn't just about flaunting your skills. It's about sharing your love for art with others and opening up opportunities for feedback, connections, and yes, potential job offers. So, ready to take the digital art world by storm?

Learn from established artists

Ever heard the saying, "Standing on the shoulders of giants"? Well, it's time to take that advice to heart as you navigate the art realm. Learning from established artists is a fantastic way to gain insights into the industry—especially when you're wondering how to get a job in art with no experience. Here's how you can do it:

Follow their work: Find artists who inspire you and follow their work. Study their techniques, understand their process, and see what makes their art unique. Use what you learn to improve your own art.
Read their interviews and watch their talks: Many experienced artists share their wisdom in interviews and talks. Listening to their experiences can provide invaluable advice on navigating the art world.
Attend their workshops or classes: If possible, take a class or workshop led by an artist you admire. This gives you the opportunity to learn from them directly and ask any questions you may have.

Learning from established artists isn't about copying their style. It's about understanding their journey, learning from their experiences, and applying their wisdom to your own path. So, who are the artists that inspire you the most?

Tailor your resume for each job

When it comes to the question of how to get a job in art with no experience, your resume can be a game-changer. But here's the thing: not all art jobs are the same, and neither should your resume be. Tailoring your resume for each job you apply for is a smart move, and here's why:

Show relevance: By highlighting your skills and projects that are most relevant to the job, you show the hiring manager that you're a good fit. For example, if the job involves digital art, showcase any digital art projects you've worked on, even if they were personal or school projects.
Speak their language: If the job posting mentions specific skills or tools, make sure you mention them in your resume (if you have them, of course!). This shows that you understand what they're looking for.
Show initiative: Including self-initiated projects or learning experiences shows that you're proactive and passionate about art. This can be especially helpful when you're figuring out how to get a job in art with no experience.

Remember, your resume isn't just a list of things you've done. It's a tool to show potential employers how you can contribute to their team. So make every word count!

Stay persistent and resilient

Getting a job in art with no experience is no small task. It's going to require persistence and resilience. Why? Because you will face rejections. Don't take it personally—everyone faces them. Instead, view them as opportunities to learn and grow. Here's how:

Seek feedback: If a job application doesn't pan out, don't be afraid to ask for feedback. It may be tough to hear, but it's valuable information that can help you improve for the next application.
Keep learning: The art world is always evolving, and so should your skills. Even if you get rejected, keep studying, practicing, and expanding your knowledge. Remember, each brushstroke brings you closer to mastering your craft.
Stay motivated: Surround yourself with things that inspire you. It could be artwork from your favorite artists, motivational quotes, or even a playlist of uplifting music. When the going gets tough, these can help you stay positive and keep moving forward.

Remember, every artist you admire started somewhere and faced their share of rejections. So don't get discouraged. Stay persistent, stay resilient, and keep going. Your breakthrough could be just around the corner!

If you found our "10 Tips to Land an Art Job with No Experience" blog post helpful and want to learn more about navigating a career as a self-taught artist, don't miss Maayan Sophia Weisstub's workshop, 'Navigating A Career As A Self-Taught Artist.' This workshop will provide you with valuable insights and advice on how to break into the art world without formal education and build a successful career on your own terms.