Ceramic Artist

Impact: Creative, Cultural

Designs, produces, and markets functional and sculptural ceramic objects using techniques such as hand-building, wheel-throwing, and mold-making, combining artistic vision with technical skill and business acumen.

What the day looks like

People interaction
Moderate
Team vs solo
Mostly Solo
Client facing
Sometimes
Impact visibility
Moderate
Travel
Low
Schedule flexibility
Flexible
Remote work
Limited Remote
Typical work hours
40
Stress level
Moderate

At a glance

Median salary
$45,000
Entry-level
$30,000
Senior
$65,000
Growth by 2033
5%
Demand
Stable
Freelance potential
High
Salary growth potential
20%
Typical student debt
$15,000

Skills you'll use

Hard skills

  • Ceramic Techniques
  • Kiln Operation
  • Glazing
  • Business Management
  • Marketing

Soft skills

  • Creativity
  • Patience
  • Problem-Solving

Technical complexity: Moderate

How to get there

Minimum education
Certificate or Vocational Training
Licensing
No
Years to mid-career
5
Years to senior
12
Career switching
Moderate

Where this career leads

How people arrive here

    Where you can go from here

      Typical progression

      1. Apprentice
      2. Studio Assistant
      3. Independent Artist
      4. Gallery Artist/Educator

      Future outlook

      Automation probability
      10%
      AI disruption risk
      Low
      Demand trend
      Stable

      How people feel about it

      Overall satisfaction
      4/10
      Meaning
      4/10
      Work-life balance
      3.5/10
      Prestige
      6/10
      Social perception
      Moderate

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