ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Visual Artist Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Arrow International, Inc.

Senior Artist

Chicago, IL

$80 - $120K/hr

Position Summary We are seeking a Senior Artist to join our Visual Development Team. The Senior Artist will use their artistic expertise with color, composition, shape, typography, animation, visual ...

Arrow International Inc

Senior Artist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80 - $120K/hr

Position Summary We are seeking a Senior Artist to join our Visual Development Team. The Senior Artist will use their artistic expertise with color, composition, shape, typography, animation, visual ...

Arrow International, Inc

Senior Artist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80 - $120K/hr

Position Summary We are seeking a Senior Artist to join our Visual Development Team. The Senior Artist will use their artistic expertise with color, composition, shape, typography, animation, visual ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsVisual Artist JobsVisual Artist Jobs in Illinois

Visual Artist information

See Illinois salary details

$35.4K

$104.5K

$147.8K

How much do visual artist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for visual artist in Illinois is $104,488.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,800.00 and $147,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a visual artist?

Visual artists are creative professionals who use various mediums—such as painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, and digital art—to express ideas, emotions, or concepts visually. Their work can be displayed in galleries, public spaces, online platforms, or commercial settings. Visual artists may work independently or collaborate with organizations, and they often develop unique styles or techniques. The field encompasses a wide range of specializations, including fine arts, illustration, graphic design, and more.

What does a visual artist do?

A visual artist creates works of art using a variety of materials. As a visual artist, your duties may be to draw images, work with paint, develop murals, design in 3D, or create art with mixed media. While many visual artists create art solely to display in galleries and sell to collectors, you can also work in a variety of other fields. Your responsibilities vary with the position, but you can work as an advertising specialist, marketing director, CAD designer, product designer, and more. Visual artists can also work in the movie industry, develop video games, or create brand images for a company. Social media is another growing area where visual artists can create content.

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

To thrive as a Visual Artist, you need a strong foundation in drawing, color theory, composition, and art history, often supported by a degree in fine arts or a related field. Familiarity with digital design tools like Adobe Creative Suite or Procreate, as well as traditional media, is typically expected. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective self-promotion are essential soft skills for standing out in a competitive field. These abilities enable artists to produce compelling work, adapt to evolving media, and build a sustainable career.

How do visual artists typically collaborate with other creative professionals during a project?

Visual artists often work closely with graphic designers, art directors, writers, and marketing teams to bring creative concepts to life. Collaboration usually involves participating in brainstorming sessions, interpreting briefs, and providing sketches or drafts for feedback. Clear communication and openness to constructive critique are essential, as projects may go through multiple revisions. This teamwork not only enhances the final product but also helps artists expand their creative network and skill set.

What is the difference between Visual Artist vs Graphic Designer?

AspectVisual ArtistGraphic Designer
CredentialsArt degrees, portfoliosDesign degrees, software skills
Work EnvironmentStudios, galleries, public spacesOffices, agencies, client sites
Industry UsageFine arts, exhibitions, installationsAdvertising, branding, marketing

While both Visual Artists and Graphic Designers create visual content, Visual Artists focus on personal or fine art projects often showcased in galleries or public spaces. Graphic Designers typically work on commercial projects like branding and advertising, using specific software tools. The roles overlap in creativity and visual communication but differ in purpose, environment, and industry focus.

How much money does a visual artist make?

The average salary for a visual artist varies widely depending on experience, location, and specialization, but typically ranges from $20,000 to $70,000 annually. Many visual artists supplement income through commissions, gallery sales, or teaching, and proficiency with tools like Adobe Creative Suite can influence earning potential.

What are 5 careers in visual artist?

Five careers for a visual artist include becoming a fine artist, graphic designer, illustrator, art director, or muralist. These roles often require proficiency with tools like Adobe Creative Suite and may involve working in studios, agencies, or freelance settings. Each career offers different opportunities for creative expression and project types.

What jobs can you get as a visual artist?

A visual artist can pursue various roles such as fine artist, illustrator, graphic designer, muralist, concept artist, or art director. These jobs often require skills in drawing, painting, digital tools, and a strong portfolio, and may involve working in studios, agencies, or freelance settings.
More about Visual Artist jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Visual Artist jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Visual Artist jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Visual Artist jobs in Illinois?

For Visual Artist jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Visual Artist jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Visual Artist jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Visual Artist jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Visual Artist job openings:

Visual Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Visual Artist job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,488 per year, or $50.2 per hour.

Community Education Visual Arts - Drawing Instructor

Township High School District 214

Arlington Heights, IL • On-site

$20 - $40/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
COMMUNITY EDUCATION/Employee
Date Posted:
4/7/2026
Location:
Forest View Educational Center
Date Available:
Ongoing
Closing Date:
Until Filled
Share Your Passion. Inspire Lifelong Learners.
District 214 Community Education is looking for a talented and passionate Visual Arts Drawing Instructor to lead engaging classes for adult learners in our community.
The ideal candidate will foster a supportive, engaging environment while helping adult students of all levels develop fundamental and advanced drawing techniques, artistic confidence, and creative expression.
Classes are typically held one evening per week, with flexible scheduling options.
HOURS: Part-time, must be available evenings and/or weekends
LOCATION: various District 214 school locations
SALARY: $20-$40 per hour based on experience
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Ability to work evening and/or weekend hours
  • Able to stand for long periods of time
  • Able to perform bending, stooping, and reaching activities as needed

POSITION EXPECTATIONS:
  • Must demonstrate appropriate interpersonal skills in dealing with staff, students, outside officials/agencies, and the general public.
  • Must project a positive image of the district as well as exhibit a positive employee attitude.
  • If over 18, must submit to background check through District 214.
  • Must complete new employee GCN training and update annually as required according to deadlines.
  • Perform other tasks assigned.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Complete an online application and provide the following information:
  • Cover letter expressing interest in position.
  • Resume listing experience, training and education.

Click on the RED "APPLY" button above to begin an online application.
"We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our district. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status."

Apply