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Background Artist Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Arrow International Inc

Senior Artist

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$123K - $147K/yr

The ideal candidate is a highly versatile game artist with experience creating and implementing ... Gaming or casino-related knowledge or background. * Knowledge of animation principles. Usage of ...

Toledo Museum of Art

Glass Production Artist

Toledo, OH · On-site

$22.68/hr

Glass Production Artist Department: Education Reports To: Assistant Director of Glass Studios FLSA ... Ability to successfully complete a background check and drug screen. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORK ...

Toledo Museum of Art

Glass Production Artist

Toledo, OH · On-site

$22.68/hr

Glass Production Artist Department: Education Reports To: Assistant Director of Glass Studios FLSA ... Ability to successfully complete a background check and drug screen. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORK ...

Tri-C

Adjunct Faculty, Theatre Arts

Westlake, OH · On-site

$942/wk

Minimum of three years recent experience as a practicing artist. * Demonstrated proficiency in ... Any employment with the College is contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background check.

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Background Artist information

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$8

$23

$38

How much do background artist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for background artist in Ohio is $23.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $26.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a background artist?

Background artists, also known as background painters or environment artists, are professionals who create the scenery, landscapes, and environments seen behind the main subjects in animated films, television shows, video games, and illustrations. Their work helps set the mood, establish the setting, and support the storytelling by providing detailed and visually appealing backgrounds. Background artists collaborate closely with other members of the art and animation team to ensure consistency in style and vision throughout the project.

How do background artists typically collaborate with other members of the animation team during a production?

Background artists work closely with art directors, layout artists, and animators to ensure the visual environment supports the story and character actions. They often attend team meetings to review storyboards and receive feedback, making adjustments to maintain consistency in style and mood. Effective communication and flexibility are key, as background artists may need to revise their work to align with changes in direction or animation requirements. This collaborative process helps create immersive settings that enhance the overall animation project.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a background artist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Background Artist, you need strong artistic ability in drawing, painting, and composition, usually supported by a portfolio and relevant art or design education. Familiarity with digital illustration software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and industry-standard tools like Toon Boom or Blender is often necessary. Attention to detail, creativity, and effective collaboration are vital soft skills for producing visually cohesive environments. These skills ensure that backgrounds enhance storytelling and maintain visual consistency in animation, games, or film productions.

What is the difference between Background Artist vs Concept Artist?

AspectBackground ArtistConcept Artist
Required CredentialsArt degree or equivalent, portfolioArt degree or equivalent, portfolio
Work EnvironmentFilm, TV, animation studiosVideo game, film, animation studios
Industry UsageCreates backgrounds for scenesDesigns characters, environments, ideas
Common Search IntentBackground design, scene creationCharacter and environment concepts

Background Artists focus on creating detailed backgrounds and environments for scenes in animation, film, and TV. Concept Artists develop initial designs and visual ideas for characters, settings, and objects. While both roles require strong artistic skills and similar credentials, Background Artists specialize in scene backgrounds, whereas Concept Artists work on conceptualizing the overall look and feel of projects.

How much do background artists make?

Background artists in the entertainment industry typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and project scope. Entry-level artists may start lower, while experienced professionals or those working on major productions can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by freelance work or overtime. Skills in digital painting, animation software, and a strong portfolio can influence earning potential.

How to get hired as a background artist?

To get hired as a background artist, build a strong portfolio showcasing your environment and scene work, and gain proficiency in tools like Photoshop, SketchUp, or Blender. Relevant experience, a good understanding of perspective and color, and networking within the industry can improve your chances of employment.

What are popular job titles related to Background Artist jobs in Ohio?

For Background Artist jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Background Artist jobs in Ohio look for?

The top searched job categories for Background Artist jobs in Ohio are:

Background Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Background Artist job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,735 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Duncanson Artist in Residence 2027 (4747)

TAFT MUSEUM OF ART

Cincinnati, OH • On-site

$69/day

Per diem

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

CALL FOR ARTISTS

2027 Duncanson Artist-in-Residence (Oral Storytelling)

Taft Museum of Art

The Taft Museum of Art invites applications for the 2027 Duncanson Artist-in-Residence. This program honors the legacy of Robert S. Duncanson (1821–1872) and the historic relationship between the artist and Cincinnati patron Nicholas Longworth (1783-1863), whose support helped shape Duncanson’s career and contributed to the development of 19th-century American art. The residency supports artists whose work engages storytelling, history, and cultural identity.

We seek an oral storyteller whose practice may include spoken word, performance poetry, oral history, or narrative performance. The ideal candidate demonstrates:

  •  A distinct and compelling storytelling voice
  • Experience engaging diverse audiences
  • The ability to connect personal narrative with broader cultural, historical, or community-based themes

We are particularly interested in artists whose work centers lived experience, cultural memory, and community engagement.

The selected artist will work closely with the Taft Museum of Art to engage the Cincinnati community through performances, workshops, and educational programming.

Why Apply?

  • National Recognition: Gain visibility as a leading artist carrying forward the legacy of Robert S. Duncanson.
  • Performance Opportunity: Showcase your work at the Taft Museum of Art, engaging with a broad and diverse audience.
  • Community Engagement: Lead workshops, lectures, and collaborative projects, fostering meaningful connections with the Cincinnati arts community.
  • Inspiration and Legacy: Be part of a program that honors and amplifies Black voices in the arts, bridging the gap between past and present.

Residency Overview

  • Dates: April 8–24, 2027
  • Location: Taft Museum of Art, Cincinnati, Ohio
  • Honorarium: $10,000 plus $69/day per diem; lodging and travel provided

The Artist-in-Residence will lead a range of public programs, including performances, workshops, school visits, gallery talks, and community events. The schedule will be developed collaboratively with museum staff to align with the artist’s strengths and interests.

The ideal candidate is both a skilled performer and an engaging educator, comfortable working with K–12 students, families, and adult audiences. Flexibility and collaboration are essential to developing meaningful and responsive programming.

Responsibilities

  • Participate in opening and closing residency receptions 
  • Deliver evening and/or weekend public presentations 
  • Conduct up to 10 school visits 
  • Lead weekend programs for families 
  • Facilitate master classes or workshops for teen and adult audiences 
  • Participate in donor events and related presentations in support of the residency 
  • Develop and present additional programs for targeted audiences, as determined in collaboration with museum staff

Programming will remain flexible to support both the artist’s practice and the museum’s goals. Artists are expected to work approximately 6–8 hours per day, six days per week. The Taft Museum of Art is committed to reaching the broadest possible audience and fostering meaningful community collaborations throughout the residency.
Application Requirements

Applicants must submit the following materials via the Taft Museum of Art Careers page at https://www.taftmuseum.org/jobs/ :

  • Cover letter outlining interest in the residency and proposed programming connected to Duncanson’s legacy
  • Résumé or CV (including relevant professional experience and links to online presence, if applicable)
  • Artist statement
  • Portfolio of 10–15 work samples (audio, video, or written formats accepted)
  • Description of proposed public programs for school, family, and adult audiences
  • Three professional references

Application Deadline: July 31, 2026 (11:59 p.m.)
Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be reviewed based on:

  • Strength and originality of artistic practice
  • Ability to engage diverse audiences through participatory programming
  • Alignment with the Duncanson Program’s mission to affirm and celebrate Black artistic presence and legacy
  • Quality of prior work and demonstrated public engagement experience

Tips for submitting your application:

  • Be concise, clear, and focused on key information
  • Assume reviewers may not be familiar with your work
  • Prepare responses in advance and copy them into the online application

Previous Duncanson Artists-in-Residence include, poet/essayist Nikki Giovanni, filmmaker William Greaves, playwright/screenwriter Keith Josef Adkins, violist Nokuthula Ngwenyama, soprano Adrienne Danrich, actor/playwright Nikkole Salter, and visual/performance artist Vanessa German, among others. 
Upon verbal notification of the award, the selected candidate must complete a background check and reference verification. Following successful completion, a formal Letter of Agreement will be issued and must be signed and returned within three (3) days.

The Taft Museum of Art will provide W-9 and ACH forms, which must be completed prior to April 2027.

Contact

For questions, please contact:
Kareem A. Simpson
Duncanson Program Manager
(513) 684-4525
duncanson@taftmuseum.org

 

The ideal candidate is both a skilled performer and an engaging educator, comfortable working with K–12 students, families, and adult audiences. Flexibility and collaboration are essential to developing meaningful and responsive programming.

Responsibilities

  • Participate in opening and closing residency receptions 
  • Deliver evening and/or weekend public presentations 
  • Conduct up to 10 school visits 
  • Lead weekend programs for families 
  • Facilitate master classes or workshops for teen and adult audiences 
  • Participate in donor events and related presentations in support of the residency 
  • Develop and present additional programs for targeted audiences, as determined in collaboration with museum staff

Programming will remain flexible to support both the artist’s practice and the museum’s goals. Artists are expected to work approximately 6–8 hours per day, six days per week. The Taft Museum of Art is committed to reaching the broadest possible audience and fostering meaningful community collaborations throughout the residency.
Application Requirements

Applicants must submit the following materials via the Taft Museum of Art Careers page at https://www.taftmuseum.org/jobs/ :

  • Cover letter outlining interest in the residency and proposed programming connected to Duncanson’s legacy
  • Résumé or CV (including relevant professional experience and links to online presence, if applicable)
  • Artist statement
  • Portfolio of 10–15 work samples (audio, video, or written formats accepted)
  • Description of proposed public programs for school, family, and adult audiences
  • Three professional references

Application Deadline: July 31, 2026 (11:59 p.m.)
Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be reviewed based on:

  • Strength and originality of artistic practice
  • Ability to engage diverse audiences through participatory programming
  • Alignment with the Duncanson Program’s mission to affirm and celebrate Black artistic presence and legacy
  • Quality of prior work and demonstrated public engagement experience
     

Apply