How to become a Painter

A painter is a fine artist who creates paintings using a range of artistic elements. They make paintings, drawings, sketches using original ideas, personal renditions of others’ works, or imitations using reference materials. They create art on a variety of surfaces, from the traditional canvas or wood to buildings or even human subjects and sculptures. They do so using various mediums such as watercolours, acrylics, oil, temporary paint, ink, tempera, spray paint and gouache to name a few; each with different transparency, consistency, drying time. They combine various materials, methods, and techniques to produce artistic pieces that are not only visually appealing but also thought-provoking. A painter can adopt one or more out of a variety of styles on the spectrum of realistic to abstract, such as impressionism, surrealism, modernism, abstract style, expressionism, and folk styles. The subject of their paintings can be anything from nature and humans to abstract concepts and emotions. They employ a range of tools such as paint brushes, spray paints, sponge, sand etc in combination with various techniques including free-hand painting, stencilling, drip-painting to paint. Painters aim to depict various emotions, experiences, and ideas in an aesthetically appealing manner through their artwork.

• Prepare the surface being used for painting, such as a clean canvas, walls
• Select and prepare the painting materials such as mixing, heating, melting ingredients 
• Create rough drafts, sketches, templates or models for the piece
• Skillfully combine various visual techniques of shading, colour schemes, spatial orientation and perspective to create artistic effects
• Develop and maintain a diverse portfolio of own work that showcase one’s artistic abilities and personal style
• Submit grant proposals, write funding applications and sending applications for relevant prizes
• Engage in self-promotion activities such as networking, showcasing own work through social media, or attending private viewings and other events
• Liaise with industry contacts, art gallery owners, curators and other artists
• Negotiate sales contracts and commissions with the clients, agents, and gallery owners

To become a painter, one should be exceptionally creative with a talent for visual communication. They should be artistically inclined, imaginative, and well-versed with the knowledge of various techniques, styles, mediums, methods, and materials used in painting. They should be highly observant and detail-oriented in order to identify and paint the finer details in order to accurately translate their artistic concepts onto their canvas. Their communication and interpersonal skills are necessary in order to coordinate their efforts with the agents, understand the creative needs of their clients, build connections with prospective clients, and negotiate sales offers. Business skills are another important element for painters in order to effectively promote their skills and their artwork in order to gain recognition and secure further work opportunities. They should be self-disciplined individuals who are committed to their art throughout their professional lives.

Minimum Monthly Salary: Entry-level painters may earn a minimum monthly income of around INR 15,000 to INR 25,000. These are typically individuals just starting their careers or working on smaller projects.

Maximum Monthly Salary: Experienced and highly skilled painters with a strong portfolio and a reputation in the industry may earn anywhere from INR 50,000 to INR 1,00,000 or more per month. The salary can significantly increase based on the demand for their artistic style and the complexity of their projects.

Annual Salary: The annual salary may range from INR 2,00,000 to INR 4,00,000 for entry-level or junior painters. As painters gain more experience, establish their brand, and undertake more prestigious projects, their annual income can increase from approximately INR 6,00,000 to INR 12,00,000 or higher.

Highest Paying Jobs and Scope: Painters who specialize in areas with high demand and commercial value, such as commissioned artworks, mural painting, or corporate branding, may have better earning potential. Successful painters with a unique artistic style and a strong online presence may also command higher fees for their artwork.

The scope for painters can vary based on their chosen specialization and artistic style. Painters can find opportunities in various industries, including fine arts, interior design, entertainment, advertising, and hospitality.

NIFT Entrance exam.

NID Entrance exam.

BFA Entrance exam.

CEED Entrance exam.

PEARL Entrance exam.

Jamia Millia Islamia BFA (Painting) Admission Entrance Test.

J.J. College of Arts Entrance Exam.

1. Fine Arts
2. Interior Design
3. Film and Entertainment
4. Advertising and Marketing
5. Hospitality
6. Event Planning
7. Restoration and Conservation
8. Education
9. Retail and Merchandising
10. Public Art