Design, arts, crafts... in detail

What does it involve?

Do you have a talent for creating things? Artists and designers help create the world we live in and can work in a variety of industries. There are two main areas to this area of work - fine art is what we enjoy looking at and includes painting and sculpture, and design is to do with creating products that are both useful and look good.

Have you thought about things we use in everyday life that need designing such as furniture, rooms, websites, clothes, shop windows and packaging? As a designer you need to be able to communicate your ideas, draw well, work to deadlines and often work as part of a team. Designers might work for a manufacturing company or as part of a team of design consultants, sometimes they are freelancers working on their own..

Artists produce works that people enjoy looking at - the piece might be a talking point or might add to the design of a room or it might illustrate a story. Sometimes a work of art will change how we view the world. It's very hard to live off an income as an artist but even if you don't find your work being exhibited, you might sell your artwork through shops, online or at fairs and auctions. The important thing to remember is don't give up!

How much will I get paid?

How to get into this type of work

Your Personal Adviser will be able to discuss your options with you.

School or college - study for GCSEs, AS / A levels, NVQs or other vocational qualifications that could lead to a job, an Apprenticeship, further qualifications or even a degree.

e2e (Entry to Employment) - if you’re not sure if you’re suited to this job you might be able to get some work experience through e2e. It can also give you extra support to gain the right qualifications, get onto a training programme or get a job.

Apprenticeship - train ‘on-the-job’ with a wage or allowance. For the latest Apprenticeship vacancies in Nottinghamshire go to Vacancies Online.

Work or work with training

Which skills?

Creative
Communication
Team work (for designers)
Organisation (for designers)

What else can I do?

Get a portfolio together (examples of your artwork).
Get some work experience.
Try out new ideas.
Brush up on some of your skills such as ICT or customer care.
Read about design, arts and crafts work on Jobs4U or look for the online EClips job descriptions in your school or nearest Connexions centre.
Talk to your Personal Adviser.

Useful links

For courses go to MyChoiceNotts

For job and training vacancies go to Vacancies Online

For more job info go to Jobs4U

For more useful links go to Fetch!