Illustrator

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Work Tasks

ILLUSTRATORS use their talent to create original artwork using a variety of media and techniques to meet the needs of clients. Illustrators create pictures for books, magazines, and other publications; and commercial products, such as textiles, greeting cards, calendars, wrapping paper, and stationery. Medical illustrators draw illustrations of the human anatomy and surgical procedures. Some illustrators draw storyboards for television commercials, movies, and animated features. Increasingly, illustrators work in a digital format, preparing their work directly on a computer.

Salary, Size & Growth

• $52,000 average per year ($25.00 per hour)
• A small occupation (10,300 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow moderately (0.9% per year)

Entry Requirements

Although formal training is not strictly necessary for ILLUSTRATORS, it is very difficult to become skilled enough to make a living without some training. A bachelor's degree in art or design and a good portfolio (a collection of the artist's best work) are becoming increasingly important as a qualification for many illustrator positions. No special licensing or certification is required for illustrators.