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Artist Assistant Jobs in Riverside, IL (NOW HIRING)

Art Institute of Chicago

Administrative Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $25/hr

Located in downtown Chicago with a fine arts graduate program consistently ranking among the top ... Position Summary The Administrative Assistant works under the supervision of, and with direction ...

Kidcreate Studio

Child Care Assistant

Oak Park, IL · On-site

$13 - $15/hr

Apply today to become a Part-Time After School Child Care Assistant who believes SLIME, CLAY, PAINT, & GLITTER should be a part of every young artist's life. We have permanent and seasonal positions ...

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All JobsArtist JobsArtist Assistant JobsArtist Assistant Jobs in Riverside, IL

Artist Assistant information

See Riverside, IL salary details

$6

$19

$33

How much do artist assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for artist assistant in Riverside, IL is $19.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $21.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Artist Assistant vs Art Director?

AspectArtist AssistantArt Director
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer art or design coursesBachelor’s degree in art, design, or related field; often a master's for senior roles
Work EnvironmentArt studios, galleries, or on-location for projectsAdvertising agencies, publishing, or media companies
Employer & Industry UsageArtists, galleries, art institutionsAdvertising, media, publishing industries
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The main difference between an Artist Assistant and an Art Director lies in their responsibilities and experience level. An Artist Assistant supports artists with tasks like preparing materials and managing studio work, often requiring basic art knowledge. An Art Director oversees creative projects, manages teams, and makes high-level design decisions, typically requiring advanced education and experience. While both roles are integral to the creative industry, they serve different functions and career stages.

What Does an Artist Assistant Do?

An artist assistant provides administrative or artistic support to an artist. In some assistant roles, you perform purely administrative duties, such as scheduling appointments, answering email and press queries, and communicating with gallerists, dealers, and collectors. However, you can also find roles similar to that of an apprentice. In these positions, you may help the artist create their artwork, oversee its installation at a gallery or public exhibit, and ensure that the studio remains in working order. Some assistants have both administrative and creative responsibilities. Your involvement depends on the needs of the artist.

How to become an assistant to an artist?

To become an artist assistant, individuals typically need a background in art, design, or related fields, along with strong organizational and communication skills. Gaining experience through internships, volunteering, or assisting local artists can be valuable, and familiarity with art tools and materials is often required. Building a professional portfolio and networking within the art community can also help secure such positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Artist Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Artist Assistant, you need a strong understanding of artistic techniques, organizational skills, and often a background in fine arts or a related field. Familiarity with studio equipment, art handling protocols, and digital tools like Adobe Creative Suite is typically required. Excellent communication, time management, and adaptability help you anticipate the artist’s needs and work efficiently in dynamic environments. These skills are vital for supporting the artist’s creative process, ensuring smooth studio operations, and contributing to the timely completion of projects.

What jobs make $3,000 a day?

High-earning jobs that can reach $3,000 a day include specialized roles such as experienced artists working on high-profile projects, certain freelance or consulting positions in fields like law, finance, or technology, and top-tier executive or entrepreneurial roles. These positions often require advanced skills, significant experience, and sometimes a flexible or demanding schedule.

What does an artist assistant do?

An artist assistant supports artists by helping with tasks such as preparing materials, organizing supplies, managing schedules, and assisting during studio work or exhibitions. They may also handle administrative duties and use tools like social media or art software to promote or document artwork.

What is the 80/20 rule for artists?

The 80/20 rule for artists suggests that approximately 80% of their results come from 20% of their efforts, meaning focusing on the most impactful tasks or projects can significantly improve productivity and success. Artist assistants can help identify and prioritize these key activities, such as developing a strong portfolio or networking, to maximize their effectiveness.

What are some common challenges faced by Artist Assistants, and how can they be overcome?

Artist Assistants often face challenges such as managing shifting priorities, working under tight deadlines, and adapting to the unique creative processes of different artists. Success in this role requires strong organizational skills, clear communication, and flexibility. Building a proactive approach to problem-solving and being open to feedback can help Artist Assistants navigate these challenges while fostering a productive working relationship with the artist.
More about Artist Assistant jobs
What job categories do people searching Artist Assistant jobs in Riverside, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Artist Assistant jobs in Riverside, IL are:
What cities near Riverside, IL are hiring for Artist Assistant jobs? Cities near Riverside, IL with the most Artist Assistant job openings:
Artist Assistant jobs near you
Professor (open-rank) in Open Medium Visual Arts

Professor (open-rank) in Open Medium Visual Arts

The University of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$140K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

University Of Chicago rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

134th of 560 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
The Department of Visual Arts (DoVA) at the University of Chicago invites applications from practicing artists well-versed in contemporary issues across all artistic disciplines to join the tenure-track faculty at the rank of Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, or Professor, with an expected start date of July 1, 2027, or as soon as possible thereafter.
The selected candidate will pursue their own creative agenda, will collaborate with faculty in the Department of Visual Arts and other areas of the Division of the Arts & Humanities and University on creative, research, and pedagogical projects. Faculty members in DoVA typically teach four courses per year on the quarter system in both the undergraduate and graduate curriculum. Additional responsibilities include advising at all levels of the program and service on departmental and University committees.
Salary Range or Pay Grade:
Assistant Professor: $90,000-$120,000; Associate Professor: $115,000-$150,000; Full Professor $140,000-$200,000. This base pay range is for a nine-month academic appointment paid over twelve months. The position also includes a relocation allowance for qualifying expenses.
This is a benefits-eligible position. The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.
Qualifications
The successful candidate will have an active artistic agenda resulting in a national and/or international exhibition and publication history, or the potential to develop such a history, as well as a record of teaching and mentoring expertise at the undergraduate and graduate levels, or the potential to become an excellent teacher and mentor. The selected candidate will also be expected to participate in helping shape the future of a visual arts department housed within an internationally renowned research institution.
Applicants must have completed all requirements for receipt of an MFA in a relevant visual arts area or other relevant degree prior to the start of the appointment or must have comparable professional experience.
Application Instructions
Applicants must upload the following materials to the University of Chicago's recruitment website at apply.interfolio.com/189582. Review of applications will begin on September 8, 2026, and will continue until the posting is closed or a candidate is selected.
  • A current curriculum vitae containing name, phone, email, mailing address, website (if applicable), as well as education, residencies, exhibition, and publications
  • A cover letter that addresses your artistic background and experience, teaching experience, and interest in joining the faculty of a research institution.
  • An artist statement articulates how the applicant's work engages its form. What are your ambitions for your work?
  • Portfolio link to samples of work, including titles, scale and materials information
  • Contact information for three recommenders who may be asked to provide letters on behalf of your application

Only complete applications can be considered. Applicants will be asked to provide a teaching statement and other additional materials following the initial review of applications. Questions may be directed to Joyce Kuechler at jkuechler@uchicago.edu.
This position is contingent upon budgetary approval.

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