Visual Artists -- Nearly 60 percent are self-employed—about seven times the proportion in all professional occupations. Visual artists communicate ideas,
thoughts, and feelings through various methods and materials—including computers, oils, watercolors, acrylics, pastels, magic markers, pencils, pen and ink,
silkscreen, plaster, or clay—or other media, such as photographs and sound. Artists usually develop their skills through a bachelor's degree program or other
postsecondary training in art or design. Keen competition is expected for both salaried jobs and freelance work because the glamorous and exciting image of
the graphic and fine arts fields attracts many talented people. Employment of visual artists is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations.