Many people aspire to make their full time career as an artist but few realise their dream even if they are very talented. There is huge competition and you really have to stand out from the crowd to be able to make a living from it. There is no regular salary and payments can be few and far between. So what are the alternatives?
There are careers in art and design that can provide a more secure career. That is not to say that they are easy to get into, but with talent and some determination and hard work, it is possible. Jobs like graphic designers and animators are examples of what I am talking about. They may not sound as glamorous as a painter or a sculptor but you still have to be talented.
Another alternative if you love art but need a secure job is a career in the art industry such as working in an art gallery or an art museum curator or guide, although you would have to keep your creative side for your spare time.
Some people choose to express their creativity by becoming an art teacher, although this can be frustrating as you often have to deal with people with little or no talent! If you love art enough, pursue your dream, but be prepared to make some compromises along the way.