Graduating from Art School? Here’s Some Advice
Five years after graduation, I wish I had known the following things and hope it will make your transition to being a professional artist easier. I graduated from the Florence Academy of Art, so this is especially useful for atelier graduates. At the end, some advice for those who went to schools where skills were not taught.
After 3 - 4 years training, your skills are in top shape but…..if you don’t keep them up, you will LOSE THEM QUICKLY. So make sure to practice and learn every day and keep drawing daily. Attend life drawing classes where you are or start a group. At the very least, join an online group.
For years, you have been doing exercises designed to build your skills…But now it is time to MOVE ON! What interests you? Develop your imagination and fantasy and try some more complex paintings combining multiple figures, an interior or exterior space, objects, animals, etc. You will quickly see where you need to improve your skills.
The same paintings that got you praise at your school for following their method, will probably not be of interest to anyone outside the atelier. Try to reconnect to the paintings you loved before attending school and see if that style is more suitable. For example, I always loved the impressionists and have since gone back to a more impressionistic style. Also, paint with emotion, paint things you really do find interesting.
Being a professional artist means running a business. Learn everything you can about the business side of art. There are many good books and podcasts ( I will soon publish a post about this). While you are in school, start selling your work and start teaching. Ask your teachers for specific, practical advice about the business side of things. This will make more sense if you are already trying to sell your work.
If you can afford it, do not go back to full time work after graduating. Use this valuable time to experiment, try to create more complex paintings while your skills are still in top shape, and build your business.
Being part of a community of practicing artists is invaluable. It is easy to get demotivated if you are too isolated. Get in touch with local artists you admire and keep in touch with fellow students.
TIP: Read the “ War of Art” by Steven Pressfield
If you went to an art school where solid skills were not taught, go to an atelier type program or find a teacher who is classically trained. Your lack of skills will be a constant thorn in the side otherwise. Think of yourself as a musician who learned a lot of theory but never really learned to play their instrument. Go learn to play it well.