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How much do decorative artist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for decorative artist in the United States is $29.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.76 and $32.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a decorative artist?

A decorative artist is a professional who specializes in enhancing the appearance of surfaces, objects, or spaces through artistic techniques such as painting, gilding, stenciling, or faux finishes. They work on a variety of projects, including murals, furniture, walls, ceilings, and architectural details, often collaborating with interior designers or architects. Decorative artists use creativity, technical skill, and knowledge of materials to transform ordinary surfaces into visually striking works of art that complement the design and atmosphere of a space.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a decorative artist?

To thrive as a Decorative Artist, you need strong artistic ability, a keen eye for color and detail, and often a background in fine arts or design. Familiarity with various painting techniques, surface preparation tools, and materials such as gold leaf or stencils is typically required. Creativity, adaptability, and excellent client communication help Decorative Artists stand out when translating vision into unique visual experiences. These skills ensure the effective execution of custom designs that meet client expectations and enhance spaces aesthetically.

What are some common challenges decorative artists face when working on large-scale projects?

Decorative Artists often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple trades, maintaining design consistency across large surfaces, and adapting to unexpected changes in project scope or client preferences. Effective communication with interior designers, contractors, and clients is crucial to ensure the final result aligns with the original vision. Additionally, managing tight deadlines and working in varied environments—such as construction sites or occupied spaces—requires strong organizational and problem-solving skills.

What is the difference between Decorative Artist vs Muralist?

AspectDecorative ArtistMuralist
CredentialsTypically requires artistic training, certifications in decorative techniquesSimilar credentials, often with specialized mural painting experience
Work EnvironmentInterior spaces, residential and commercial settingsLarge-scale outdoor or indoor wall surfaces
Industry UsageInterior design, home decor, set designPublic art, commercial murals, community projects

Decorative artists focus on enhancing interior spaces with decorative finishes, while muralists create large-scale artworks on walls. Both roles require artistic skills and similar credentials, but differ mainly in scale and setting. Decorative artists often work on detailed interior projects, whereas muralists handle expansive wall murals, often in public or outdoor spaces.

How do you become a decorative artist?

To become a decorative artist, you typically need to develop skills through formal training such as art or design courses, apprenticeships, or self-study. Gaining experience with painting techniques, surface preparation, and tools like brushes and stencils is important, and building a portfolio can help showcase your work to potential clients or employers.

What are the types of decorative artist work?

Decorative artists perform a variety of work including mural painting, faux finishing, stenciling, gilding, and decorative surface treatments. They often work in interior design, set design, or restoration projects, using tools like brushes, sponges, and specialty paints to enhance aesthetic appeal. These roles may require knowledge of color theory, surface preparation, and sometimes certifications in decorative painting techniques.
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Decorative Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Decorative Artist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 44% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,546 per year, or $29.1 per hour.

Collections Conservator

George Washington's Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Collections Conservator
Position Type: Full-Time, Exempt
Preserve Objects. Protect History. Shape the Future.
George Washington's Mount Vernon is seeking an experienced Collections Conservator to care for and preserve an exceptional Fine and Decorative Arts Collection at one of the nation's most significant historic sites.
This is an opportunity to do meaningful conservation work in a setting where history is not simply studied-it is experienced every day. The Collections Conservator will work hands-on with a diverse collection spanning paintings, prints, sculpture, furniture, metals, ceramics, textiles, and other historic materials, helping ensure these objects remain accessible and meaningful for generations to come.
The Collections Conservator will have an important role in both the hands-on treatment and long-term preservation of Mount Vernon's collections. This position combines conservation treatment, preventive conservation, exhibition support, collections care, vendor and project management, and collaboration with curatorial and collections professionals.
The successful candidate will bring strong technical expertise, sound professional judgment, and a collaborative approach to the care of historic objects.
About Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon, the former home of George and Martha Washington, is owned and maintained by the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association of the Union, the oldest national historic preservation organization in the United States.
Founded in 1853 by Ann Pamela Cunningham, the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association pioneered the preservation of a historic American site for future generations. Today, the Association works to preserve, restore, and manage the Mount Vernon estate to the highest standards while educating visitors and people around the world about the life and legacies of George Washington.
The Historic Preservation and Collections Department plays a central role in that mission by preserving and restoring Mount Vernon to its 1799 appearance and caring for original, period, and reproduction objects that support the organization's educational mission.
What You'll Do
Conservation Treatment & Object Care
  • Perform and document conservation treatments on objects within the Fine and Decorative Arts Collection.
  • Assess objects and prepare them for exhibition, analysis, storage, and movement.
  • Apply accepted professional conservation practices and maintain treatment standards consistent with the AIC Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice.
  • Collaborate with curators and collections staff to determine appropriate conservation approaches and priorities.
Objects Conservation Lab
  • Manage the daily operations of the approximately 600-square-foot Objects Conservation Lab.
  • Organize and maintain conservation equipment, materials, and supplies.
  • Ensure appropriate health and safety practices are followed within the lab and during conservation activities.
  • Work safely and appropriately with conservation equipment and chemicals.
Exhibition & Loan Support
  • Provide exhibition conservation support for objects displayed throughout Mount Vernon, including the Museum and Education Center, Library, and Mansion.
  • Collaborate with exhibition designers, contractors, curators, and other Mount Vernon staff to ensure appropriate conditions for the display and care of artifacts.
  • Research and test exhibition materials to evaluate their suitability for use with collection objects.
  • Support the safe care and preparation of objects traveling to and from other institutions on loan.
Preventive Conservation
  • Monitor the condition of objects on display and in storage in collaboration with Collections Management staff.
  • Contribute to the development and implementation of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies.
  • Participate in planning for object movement and recommend appropriate methods for packing, handling, and rehousing artifacts.
  • Review materials used for packing and rehousing and recommend improvements or upgrades when appropriate.
Project & Vendor Management
  • Recommend, direct, and monitor conservation treatments performed by contract conservators.
  • Solicit proposals and evaluate estimates for conservation and collections care projects.
  • Select and manage vendors and contractors as needed.
  • Generate and manage project and operational budgets related to conservation activities.
Documentation & Collections Support
  • Maintain complete and accurate conservation documentation, including treatment proposals, treatment reports, photographic documentation, and invoices.
  • Assist curators with acquisitions as needed.
  • Coordinate analytical testing of objects with appropriate institutions or specialists.
  • Collaborate with curators and collections staff in training new team members in proper collections care and object handling.
Emergency Preparedness & Professional Engagement
  • Represent the Collections Department in institutional disaster and emergency preparedness activities.
  • Contribute to conservation education and professional development through activities such as hosting interns, giving presentations, and participating in professional organizations and activities as schedules permit.
What We're Looking For
We're looking for an experienced conservation professional who combines strong technical expertise with excellent judgment, organization, and collaboration skills.
Required Qualifications
  • MA or MS degree in conservation from a recognized training program, with an objects specialization or another specialization relevant to the Fine and Decorative Arts Collection.
  • At least six years of museum experience in a similar position.
  • Solid knowledge of conservation and collections care practices.
  • Working knowledge of conservation laboratory equipment and chemicals.
  • Experience managing conservation or collections care projects and budgets.
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively.
  • Strong organizational skills and the ability to meet deadlines and manage multiple priorities.
  • Flexibility and reliability, including the ability to work extended hours or beyond a normal work week when necessary.
  • Ability to work with collections management databases; experience with TMS is preferred.
  • Ability to successfully complete a security background check.
  • Ability to wear a respirator.

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