A pervasive stereotype in all fields, including art, states that a degree increases one’s chances for professional success. However, it’s much more complicated than that, especially when it comes to such an elusive and creative area as art. In some cases, and for some people, an art degree can be a source of guidance and inspiration. For others, it’s nothing but wasted time and money. In this blog post, we are discussing the pros and cons of art education to dispel some common myths on this topic.
Advantages of having a degree in art
For some people, studying art is a natural continuation of their lifelong creative journey. It can be enriching personally and intellectually and can help you understand your interests and untapped potential better.
Art education is also useful for choosing a career path, which does not necessarily have to be connected directly to creating art. Whatever choice you make, be it an art dealer, gallery manager, or art consultant, art education is always a huge advantage. In any of these areas, being able to navigate the history of art and various art movements and styles is a key skill that will highlight the depth of your professional knowledge.
Disadvantages of art education
Despite the listed advantages of an art degree, it is not absolutely necessary. Many celebrated artists, such as Vincent van Gogh or Frida Kahlo, didn’t have classical art education. The great thing about being an artist is that you can take a unique personal journey and learn through hands-on experiences. More importantly, a degree does not make you an artist automatically.
Needless to say, art education, especially in prestigious art schools, can be quite expensive. After spending a fortune on getting a degree, you may find yourself realizing that art is not your thing. The risk of not finding a job or not being able to earn a living through independent work is also high.
Calculating the pros and cons of art education for each specific case
Whatever your motivations and interests may be, it is always a good idea to determine your own pros and cons of art education. These will depend on your financial resources, available time, professional aspirations, natural creative predispositions, and many other factors. Don’t let anyone lead you stray and convince you that there is only one right decision. Whatever choice you make, it is ultimately your persistence that will help you achieve your creative goals, not the degree in your pocket.