Sculptor Sculptors express artistic ideas in original three-dimensional artworks in a wide variety of media, including sound and virtual reality. Educational Requirements: Vary Occupational Growth Rate: Below average growth Duties The boundaries between categories in the visual arts are much less distinct today than they once were. Traditionally, sculptors have used materials such as stone, bronze, concrete, wood, clay and plaster. Today, many sculptors use materials and methods normally associated with other disciplines. For example, they may work in, and experiment with, photography, metals of all kinds, fired ceramics, electricity, video and digital media, sound, wax, ice, plastics, performance art, fibre, textiles and other materials. They may produce only one, or a limited number of copies, of each piece of work. Sculptures range in size from a small coin to several hundred acres of "live art." There are many new and emerging areas as sculptors experiment with new materials, installation techniques and mixed media applications. In some cases, sculptors employ the assistance of engineers, mechanics and other technical experts. Many sculptors are continually studying and learning different techniques and experimenting with different materials. They keep up-to-date with what is going on in the art world by reading and attending exhibitions at art galleries. Working Conditions Sculptors' working conditions vary with the medium in which they are working. They may use a variety of hand tools and power tools. Some materials and tools require attention to safety practices to prevent injury. Studios may be clean and well-ventilated, or they may have less than ideal working conditions. Flying particles, falling objects, fumes, heat and chemicals are common occupational hazards. Many sculptors work at home, wherever large pieces will be situated, or in studios located in artist-run centres or warehouses. Being a sculptor can be physically demanding. Lifting requirements vary depending on the medium. Skills, Interests, Values To succeed, sculptors need the following characteristics: -self-discipline and determination -self-promotion and marketing skills -artistic talent and creativity -the ability to translate their ideas into finished products and critique their own work -the ability to communicate their ideas on paper (to prepare proposals) -the ability to deal with criticism -Sculptors should enjoy working independently Educational Requirements There are no formal education requirements for sculptors. However, they need: -some knowledge of art history, composition and contemporary art criticism -a portfolio of good quality slides of their best work -training in the safe use of materials, tools and equipment -small business skills (marketing and financial management skills in particular) Employment and Advancement Sculptors may receive commissions or fees paid in advance that allow them to buy materials and cover some living expenses while they finish a site-specific or major work. However, few sculptors can support themselves on their art work alone. Many work full-time or part-time in other fields to cover their living costs and studio rent. Sculptures may be commissioned by special request, or sold in retail markets or through agents. Sculptors may display their art in -galleries and museums -restaurants and clubs -office buildings and public spaces -parks, exhibit grounds and international expositions -they may also market their work electronically, through television and the Internet Emerging sculptors may get a start by entering art competitions, art festivals or arranging their own shows in their homes or artist-run centres. Before approaching gallery owners, sculptors should do some research to find the gallery with a "style" compatible to their own. Sculptors usually have one gallery representative per city. Salary Some sculptors receive commissions or fees paid in advance that allow them to buy materials and cover some living expenses while they finish a site-specific or major work. Many sculptors make only a minimal income from their art. Related Occupational Profiles Painter/Printmaker