Art Director
What They Do
Art directors are responsible for the visual style and images in magazines, newspapers, product packaging, and movie and television productions.
Work Enviroment
Most art directors are self-employed. Others work for advertising and public relations firms, newspaper and magazine publishers, motion picture and video industries, and specialized design services firms.
How To Become One
Art directors need at least a bachelor’s degree in an art or design subject and previous work experience. Depending on the industry, art directors may have previously worked as graphic designers, illustrators, copy editors, or photographers, or in another art or design occupation.
Pay
The median annual wage for art directors was $111,040 in May 2024.
Job Outlook
Employment of art directors is projected to grow 4 percent from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. About 12,300 openings for art directors are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
Similar Occupations
Fashion Designers, Graphic Designers, Industrial Designers, and Photographers
More Information
Art Directprs do not typically create the artwork themselves; instead, they act as the visual visionary, managing teams of graphic designers , photographers, and illustrators to ensure the final product meets the intended goals. They translate abstract ideas and marketing goals into cohesive visual narratives.
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