Art and Design
People working in design, arts and crafts help to make the world around us a more attractive place. Their creative and original ideas can extend to practical things, affecting the appearance and usefulness of virtually everything around us.
- Artists - who express their ideas and creativity through producing paintings or sculptures. Most fine artists have to take other work part time, as very few earn a living solely from selling their art.
- Craft workers - who use their creative and practical skills, eg engravers, musical instrument manufacturers and repairers, and picture framers.
- Designers - who apply their artistic ability to finding practical solutions to a huge range of products and services. Most designers specialise in just one area, such as graphics, product design, theatre and television stage set, theatrical costume, textile, jewellery or clothing/fashion. The use of computers, computer-aided design, is becoming increasingly important in some types of design work. Competition for many design jobs can be fierce.
Many people in these sectors are self-employed and have no set working hours. Those in employment tend to work regular hours, but they must be flexible and prepared to put in longer hours at certain times to meet deadlines. Most art and design work takes place in studios or offices, possibly at home. Craft work tends to be in workshops.
Creative flair is essential for many jobs, as is drawing ability and a sense of colour. Many design jobs need good computer skills. Some craft workers need to be good at working with their hands rather than having creative ability. Good business skills are important in many jobs, particularly for those who are self-employed.
Around 500,000 people are engaged in the design, arts and crafts industries, and over half of these are self-employed. Many artists and craft workers have more than one job to help them boost their income. There are jobs in companies and organisations, especially for designers, mostly with very small or medium-sized businesses.
Generally, craft jobs have no set entry requirements. Some talented people manage to get into design and arts work without qualifications. It is, though, a competitive field, so for most creative jobs it is necessary to have a relevant qualification before entry, often a higher national diploma, degree or postgraduate qualification. The first step is often a general art and design course. In many cases progression is possible to supervisor and manager positions. This may mean moving between employers. Progression for self-employed workers may be seen as establishing their reputation and ensuring a steady supply of work.
Art and design courses at Newbury College offer pathways through design and photography:
To apply for any of these courses call 01635 845000 and we will arrange an interview.
Our Learner Services and Information team can also offer careers advice and guidance if you are not sure which course to choose.
Newbury College
Monks Lane
Newbury
RG14 7TD
Telephone: 01635 845000
Fax: 01635 845312
Email: info@newbury-college.ac.uk