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Visual Artist Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Bensenville Park

Visual Arts Instructor

Bensenville, IL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Under the direction of the Cultural & Fine Arts Supervisor, the Visual Art Instructor plans, organizes, and teaches art classes, is responsible for creating class curriculum, demonstrates art ...

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 ...

For the Love of the Arts Inc

Be Seen First

Creatives

Crown Point, IN · On-site

$75 - $100/day

Visual Arts * Drawing * Painting * Watercolor * Acrylics * Mixed Media * Sculpture * Pottery & Ceramics * Printmaking * Graphic Design * Digital Art * Photography Performing Arts * Acting * Theatre * ...

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All JobsVisual Artist JobsVisual Artist Jobs in Chicago, IL

Visual Artist information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$37.6K

$111.2K

$157.2K

How much do visual artist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for visual artist in Chicago, IL is $111,166.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,200.00 and $156,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can you get as a visual artist?

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

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 success often depends on portfolio quality and networking skills.

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.

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 a strong portfolio to showcase artistic skills. Opportunities exist in galleries, advertising agencies, publishing, and public art projects.

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.

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.
More about Visual Artist jobs

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Visual Artist jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Visual Artist jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Visual Artist jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Visual Artist jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Visual Artist job openings:

Visual Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Visual Artist job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 42% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,166 per year, or $53.4 per hour.

Visual Arts Instructor

Bensenville Park

Bensenville, IL • On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Under the direction of the Cultural & Fine Arts Supervisor, the Visual Art Instructor plans, organizes, and teaches art classes, is responsible for creating class curriculum, demonstrates art techniques, and assists with events.
DUTIES AND ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
  • Maintain a safe, energetic, and motivational teaching atmosphere
  • Instruct ages 5 and up in a variety of art techniques such as drawing, painting, or sculpting
  • Create progressive lesson plans
  • Stay updated on art trends and games
  • Help plan events
  • Maintain open communication with supervisor, families, and participants
  • Other duties as assigned by supervisor

  • 1-3 years of experience teaching children at beginning, intermediate, and advanced art levels
  • Adequate knowledge of techniques, vocabulary, and art forms
  • Ability to create lesson plans and curriculum
  • Comfortable creating age-appropriate visuals and lesson materials
  • Ability to motivate and energize students of all skill levels and ages
  • Background or degree in Arts highly encouraged, but not required

JOB STATUS Part time DEPARTMENT Recreation FSLA STATUS Non-Exempt
SALARY $16.00-$18.00 per hour
HOURS 2-8 hours per week including evenings and weekends

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