If you want to become an artist or study art, you don’t necessarily need a college degree. You can make art on your own any time you want using your own supplies. If you like to learn about art, you can go to galleries in your city.
There are hundreds of professional artists out there who never studied art in school. Some are successful around the world. Unlike numerous other professions, you don’t need a certification or a job offer to practice art. So why do people go to arts school at all?
There are a number of different reasons why hundreds of people choose to go to art school every single year. Many people who go to art school are exceptionally talented and skilled. Though the rationale for going to art school varies from person to person, the following are some of the most common reasons.
1. You’re Forced To Cut Out Time To Practice Your Art
One of the catch 22’s of making art is that much of the time, it doesn’t earn you a living. Emerging artists are often forced to work twice as hard to get noticed. This may mean working a part- or full-time job in an unfulfilling job in addition to developing a portfolio, contacting gallerists, promoting their own work, and networking the art world. This is where a number of aspiring artists fail—they find they’re not able to devote the time they need to practicing their art. Though it won’t solve any financial woes, going to arts school can help you to devote your energy to making art full-time.
2. You’ll Have Access To The Supplies And Equipment You Need
Another struggle of making art is the cost of supplies and equipment. Emerging artists especially can benefit from having access to discounted art supplies. If you practice a type of art that requires precise equipment, such as screen printing or digital technology, going to arts school can give you an advantage in that you’ll be able to access the equipment you need without having to pay for it yourself.
3. You’ll Have Access To A Studio
Another perk of going to arts school is the fact that you’ll likely be given your own space to create. For many artists, finding an affordable studio space isn’t even a possibility. But when you go to school to study art, you will most likely have access to a communal studio where you can let your creativity go wild.
4. Instructors Are Experts Who Will Challenge You To Improve Your Ability
The truth is that it’s extremely difficult to improve as an artist when you’re on your own. While you may have talent and skill, it usually takes an knowledgeable outside party—that is, someone to critique your work—to help you improve. At arts school, you will have personal feedback from qualified art instructors. Often, art instructors are themselves artists who have professional experience in the field. They know how to help you push the boundaries of your art so that you improve over the course of your degree.