Advertising Graphic Artists are creative individuals who add visual interest to advertising campaigns. An advertising graphic artist will work on advertising images, product packages, signs, logos, etc. They are part of an important team that creates images to draw attention to a particular product or service. It is important that they have computer skills because many advertising images are created on a computer.
To become an Advertising Graphic Artist it would be important to have a two or four year degree with courses in visual communications, digital images, animation, and advertising design. And while creativity and natural ability can often be more important than formal training, there is a lot to be said for the formal training in advertising since drawing as a hobby and drawing for a specific audience to produce a specific result are two entirely different things.
While a college degree in advertising can better prepare individuals for the creative and visual aspects of selling and presenting a product and service, there are some personality traits that lend themselves to a successful career in advertising. Graphic designers should be creative and personable. They should enjoy illustration and drawing. Being motivated and competitive are important traits for this field but should never get in the way of establishing and maintaining great personal relationships with the advertising team and the client. Those pursuing a career in advertising should also be adaptable, decisive, and able to handle stress.
The average salary for advertising art professionals (advertising graphic artists) is $31,000. However, those with experience, even in related fields, and a strong portfolio will have a better chance at gaining the jobs they pursue and earning a higher rate of pay. Also, many advertising agencies and firms will have training to help accelerate advancement in this career. There are also many courses available at local colleges and universities and even online that can help individuals gain specific skills needed to advance or even change advertising positions.
