Fulfilling and financially sustainable careers absolutely do exist for high school students who excel in the visual arts, says Sarah Eve, an award-winning teacher and visual artist with special expertise in gifted and talented education. But – and here’s the “big but”, according to Eve – students and, most importantly, their parents, don’t know these careers exist, or which study pathways may lead to them.
‘Students and parents often perceive an art career solely through the archetype of a struggling artist, instead of seeing a thriving industry and a rewarding career that contributes to society,’ Eve tells ArtsHub. ‘More arts educators need to take an active role in advocating for visual arts careers to students, parents and the wider community – and there are so many opportunities to do so.’
