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Professional Artist Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Jos Place Inc

Full Time Cook

Virden, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $18/hr

You will assist in the preparation, cooking, and presentation of meals in our professional kitchen ... Previous experience in cooking, culinary arts, or other related fields * Knowledge of kitchen ...

Jos Place Inc

Full Time Cook

Virden, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $18/hr

You will assist in the preparation, cooking, and presentation of meals in our professional kitchen ... Previous experience in cooking, culinary arts, or other related fields * Knowledge of kitchen ...

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All JobsProfessional Artist JobsProfessional Artist Jobs in Springfield, IL

Professional Artist information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$9

$24

$40

How much do professional artist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional artist in Springfield, IL is $24.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a professional artist?

Professional artists are individuals who create visual, performance, or digital art as their main occupation or source of income. They may work in various media, including painting, sculpture, photography, illustration, or digital design. Professional artists often exhibit their work in galleries, sell pieces to collectors, or take on commissions. They might also collaborate with businesses, publishers, or organizations to create custom works. In addition to creating art, many professional artists engage in activities such as teaching, curating, or participating in public art projects.

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

To thrive as a Professional Artist, strong drawing or painting ability, creativity, and a solid understanding of art theory and techniques—often supported by a degree in fine arts—are essential. Familiarity with digital art software like Adobe Creative Suite, as well as traditional media and portfolio management platforms, is highly valuable. Standout soft skills include self-motivation, adaptability, and effective communication to market work and collaborate with clients or galleries. These skills are important for producing compelling art, building a recognizable brand, and achieving sustainable success in a competitive industry.

What are some common challenges professional artists face when working with clients on commissioned projects?

Professional artists often encounter challenges such as aligning their creative vision with a client's expectations, managing timelines, and navigating feedback or revision requests. Clear communication at the outset is crucial to ensure that both parties understand the project goals and deliverables. Additionally, artists must balance their artistic integrity with the need to adapt their style or process to meet client needs, all while adhering to deadlines and maintaining a positive working relationship.

What is the difference between Professional Artist vs Graphic Designer?

AspectProfessional ArtistGraphic Designer
CredentialsArt degrees, portfolios, artistic certificationsDesign degrees, software proficiency, portfolios
Work EnvironmentArt studios, galleries, freelanceAdvertising agencies, corporate offices, freelance
Industry UsageFine arts, exhibitions, commissionsMarketing, branding, digital media

While both Professional Artists and Graphic Designers create visual content, Professional Artists focus on fine arts, personal expression, and exhibitions, often working independently or in galleries. Graphic Designers primarily develop visual solutions for brands, marketing, and digital media, often working within corporate or agency settings. Both roles require strong artistic skills and portfolios but differ in purpose, environment, and industry focus.

How much money does a professional artist make?

The average annual salary for a professional artist varies widely depending on experience, location, and specialization, typically ranging from $30,000 to $80,000. Successful artists who sell their work independently or work in commercial fields like illustration or design can earn higher incomes, especially with a strong portfolio and client base.

What does a professional artist do?

A professional artist creates visual works such as paintings, sculptures, illustrations, or digital art for clients, galleries, or commercial projects. They often develop a portfolio, use tools like brushes or digital software, and may work independently or for organizations to produce art that communicates ideas or evokes emotion.

What kind of job can you get as a professional artist?

A professional artist can work in various fields such as fine arts, illustration, graphic design, animation, and commercial art. They may find employment with art galleries, advertising agencies, media companies, or as freelance creators, often requiring skills in digital tools like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator. Job roles can include painter, illustrator, concept artist, art director, or muralist.

What are the most commonly searched types of Artist jobs in Springfield, IL?

The most popular types of Artist jobs in Springfield, IL are:

What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Professional Artist jobs?

Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Professional Artist job openings:

Professional Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Artist job openings in Springfield, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,807 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Adjunct (per course) Instructor - Visual Arts

University of Illinois Springfield

Springfield, IL • On-site

$2.7K - $3.6K/mo

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Adjunct (per course) Instructor - Visual Arts
The Visual Arts program at the University of Illinois Springfield has occasional need for adjunct (per course) instructors. The program is currently searching for an instructor for ART215 Photography 1: In-depth exploration of the photographic process withan emphasis on a fine print creation, camera techniques and use of light forboth digital and film.
Minimum adjunct teaching requirements:
  • Undergraduate programs: Master of Fine Arts or higher in the discipline or subfield.

Application deadline: Open
Application instructions: Click the "Apply Now" button, create or update your profile, complete theonline application, and upload a cover letter addressing the responsibilities of the position, current curriculum vita or resume, and unofficial transcripts. Contact information for professional references and official transcripts will be requested of finalists. Department/schools will periodically review applications, and you may not hear from them unless they have a need for someone with your qualifications and experience.
Importantnote: In order to maintain employment eligibility, adjunct faculty are requiredto complete mandatory annual employee training, including (but not limited to)Ethics, and Preventing Harassment & Discrimination. Adjunct faculty teaching online courses must successfully complete the Building Digital Community (BDC) self-paced course during their first semester teaching online to be eligible to teach additional online courses at UIS. BDC is offered free of charge through the Center for Online Learning, Research and Service (COLRS). Email COLRS (colrs@uis.edu) to enroll in BDC.
Salary: The minimum compensation for adjunct(per course) teaching at UIS ranges from $2700 to $3600. Minimum pay is basedon number of courses previously taught at UIS, and whether the instructor hasearned a terminal degree.
About UIS: Located in the state capital, the University of Illinois Springfield is one of three members of the University of Illinois system. The University serves approximately 4,000 students in 60 undergraduate programs of study, 41 minors, 44 graduate programs of study, 1 doctorate, 43 graduate certificates, coursework that leads to 8 ISBE endorsements. The academic curriculum offers students a strong liberal arts core, a wide range of professional programs, and close faculty interaction. Making the most of its location in the state capital, UIS is broadly engaged in public policy and service. Its diverse student body includes traditional, non-traditional, and international students. Twenty-five percent of majors are in 17 undergraduate and graduate online degree programs and the campus has received several national awards for its implementation of online learning. UIS faculty are committed teachers, active scholars, and professionals in service to society. The University emphasizes excellence in teaching, and faculty are also expected to provide a balance of scholarship and service activities to meet requirements for tenure and promotion. You are encouraged to visit the University web page at www.uis.edu and the program web page at https://www.uis.edu/visual-arts
About Springfield, Illinois: https://www.uis.edu/academic-affairs/about-our-springfield-community
Adjunct employment FAQ: https://go.uis.edu/adjunct-faq
The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer dedicated to building a community of excellence, equity, and diversity. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment and we welcome applications from qualified individuals of all backgrounds and identities. The University of Illinois System does not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on their real or perceived race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, order of protection status, genetic information, marital status, disability, sexual orientation including gender identity, unfavorable discharge from the military or status as a protected veteran and will comply with all federal and state nondiscrimination, equal opportunity and affirmative action laws, orders and regulations. Visit University of Illinois Non-Discrimination Statement
The University of Illinois System conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer of employment. Convictions are not a bar to employment. Background checks will be performed in compliance with state and federal law.
The University of Illinois System requires candidates selected for hire to disclose any documented finding of sexual misconduct or sexual harassment and to authorize inquiries to current and former employers regarding findings of sexual misconduct or sexual harassment. For more information, visit Policy on Consideration of Sexual Misconduct in Prior Employment
As a qualifying federal contractor, the University of Illinois System uses E-Verify to verify employment eligibility
This position is not eligible for benefits.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.
UIS employment in this role is not covered by Social Security, and instead, is covered by the State University Retirement System.
  • You will not pay Social Security taxes and your earning will not be on your Social Security Record. (Your record will, however, show your Medicare wages.
  • Your pension from the State Universities Retirement System may affect the amount of your:
  1. Social Security benefit and
  1. Social Security benefit as a spouse

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