Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting out, a well-crafted resume serves as a crucial tool to showcase your talent and professionalism to potential employers or clients.

In this guide, we explore effective artist resume examples and templates that highlight your creative prowess. We will also provide actionable tips to help you create a compelling document that stands out in the creative world.

To do a dull thing with style is preferable to doing a dangerous thing without it. To do a dangerous thing with style is what I call art.

Charles Bukowski

Artist resume examples

Tattoo artist resume sample

Tattoo artist resume template

Tattoo artist resume template
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Resume for tattoo artists | Plain text

Professional Summary

Highly skilled and creative Tattoo Artist with more than 9 years of experience in creating custom tattoos. Proficient in various styles including black and gray, realism, traditional, and new school. Known for exceptional attention to detail, strong client relationships, and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of hygiene and safety.

Experience

Senior Tattoo Artist

Ink & Needle Tattoo Studio, Austin, TX

June 2018 - Present

  • Design and execute custom tattoos for clients, specializing in black and grey, realism, and traditional styles.
  • Conduct client consultations to discuss design ideas, placement, and aftercare instructions.
  • Maintain a clean and sterile work environment, adhering to all health regulations.
  • Develop a loyal client base through exceptional service and high-quality artwork.
  • Participate in local and national tattoo conventions, showcasing work and expanding professional network.

Tattoo Artist

Eternal Ink, Austin, TX

February 2016 - May 2018

  • Collaborated with clients to create unique tattoo designs tailored to their ideas.
  • Utilized various tattooing techniques including line work, shading, and color blending.
  • Assisted in training and mentoring junior artists and apprentices.
  • Managed appointments, ensuring efficient time management and client satisfaction.
  • Contributed to studio promotions and social media presence, increasing client engagement and studio visibility.

Apprentice Tattoo Artist

Tattoo Haven, San Antonio, TX

July 2015 - January 2016

  • Assisted senior artists with tattoo preparations, sterilization of equipment, and maintaining hygiene standards.
  • Learned and practiced various tattooing techniques under the supervision of experienced artists.

Education

Associate of Arts (AA) in Graphic Design

Austin Community College, TX

2016 - 2019

Certificate in Tattoo Art and Design

Tattoo Academy, San Antonio, TX

2014 - 2015

Skills

  • Needlework
  • Color Mixing
  • Design Drawing
  • Sterilization Techniques
  • Health & Safety Regulations Knowledge

Links

  • Instagram - tattoohoffer
  • YouTube - TattooTonyHoffer

Strong sides of this artist resume:

  • It shows a clear career progression from apprentice to senior tattoo artist, demonstrating growth and experience.
  • The summary is brief yet comprehensive, giving an overview of the artist’s specialties. It mentions key styles and commitment to hygiene and safety.
  • One-page resume is usually sufficient to include all education, experience, achievements, and skills without overwhelming the reader.
How to properly format a resume for an artistic position?

Your resume is an extension of your portfolio. A visually appealing document demonstrates your design sense and aesthetic skills. Plus, clear headings, bullet points, and consistent formatting help employers quickly find the information they need.

Here are some recommendations:

  • Choose a clean, easy-to-read font like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Avoid overly decorative fonts that can be hard to read.
  • Use a consistent font size throughout the artist resume, typically 10-12 points for the main text and slightly larger for headings.
  • Incorporate white space to avoid clutter. Adequate spacing between sections and text elements improves readability.
  • Add standard margins (1 inch on all sides) and spacing (single or 1.15 spacing within sections) to keep the page balanced and uncluttered.

One of the most effective ways to ensure your document is properly formatted and free of errors is to use an online resume builder like Resume Trick.

This platform offers a variety of professionally designed artist resume templates that are tailored to different industries and roles. Automated tools help prevent common errors such as misaligned text, inconsistent bullet points, and improper spacing.

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Freelance artist resume example

Sample freelance artist resume

Professional Summary

Creative and versatile Freelance Artist with over 14 years of experience in producing diverse artwork across multiple mediums, including digital art, painting, and illustration. Known for delivering high-quality work that meets client specifications and deadlines. Seeking opportunities to bring artistic vision and technical expertise to new and exciting projects.

Key Skills

  • Digital Art: Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)
  • Traditional Art: Skilled in watercolor, acrylic, and oil painting
  • Illustration: Character design, concept art, and book illustrations
  • Client Collaboration: Strong communication and client relationship management
  • Project Management: Efficient in managing multiple projects and meeting deadlines
  • Creative Problem-Solving: Innovative approach to artistic challenges
  • Attention to Detail: Keen eye for detail and aesthetics
  • Time Management: Ability to deliver projects on time
  • Marketing and Self-Promotion: Experience in social media marketing and online portfolio management

Professional Experience

Freelance Artist

New York, NY

January 2014 – Present

  • Create custom artwork for clients, including portraits, landscapes, and abstract pieces.
  • Design and illustrate book covers, posters, and marketing materials for various clients.
  • Develop digital art and illustrations for websites, video games, and mobile apps.
  • Collaborate with clients to understand their ideas and deliver tailored art solutions.
  • Manage all aspects of freelance business, from client acquisition to project completion.

Illustrator and Graphic Designer

Freelance, Remote

March 2010 – December 2013

  • Produced illustrations and graphics for magazines, online publications, and advertising agencies.
  • Worked with authors and publishers to create engaging book illustrations.
  • Designed logos, brand identities, and promotional materials for startups and small businesses.
  • Enhanced marketing campaigns with visually compelling artwork and designs.
  • Utilized feedback from clients to refine and improve artwork, ensuring satisfaction.

Education

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Illustration

Parsons School of Design, New York, NY

Graduated: May 2010

Certifications

  • Certified Digital Artist – Digital Arts Academy (2024)
  • Advanced Illustration Techniques – Creative Arts Institute (2022)

Exhibitions and Publications

  • Solo Exhibition: "Visions in Color" – Art Gallery NYC, 2024
  • Group Exhibition: "Modern Illustrators" – Creative Space, 2024
  • Publication: Illustrated cover for "The Enchanted Forest" by Jane Doe, 2023
  • Publication: Featured in "Art Monthly Magazine", May 2021

Professional Affiliations

  • Member – Society of Illustrators (since 2020)
  • Participant – Annual Art Fair NYC (since 2018)

Portfolio and References

  • Portfolio available at alexamorganart.com
  • References available upon request

Here are a few reasons why this example of artist resume will impress recruiters:

  • It highlights the applicant's versatility and specific artistic abilities (both hard and soft), making it clear that the person can handle various types of projects.
  • Emphasizing client collaboration and project management skills showcases the ability to handle freelance work independently and effectively.
  • Listing solo and group exhibitions, as well as publications, showcases professional recognition and active participation in the art community.
Should I choose an artist resume objective or summary?

When deciding which option to include in your artist resume, consider the differences between them and which one best fits your career stage and goals.

A resume summary is a brief overview of your professional accomplishments, skills, and experiences. It's typically used by individuals who have relevant experience and want to highlight their career achievements.

Artist resume summary sample:

Experienced multimedia artist with over 10 years in the industry, specializing in digital illustration and graphic design. Known for innovative use of color and texture, with works featured in major exhibitions like the National Art Gallery and published in ArtForum Magazine. Adept at collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver creative solutions for commercial and artistic projects.

An objective statement focuses on your goals and what you aim to achieve in your next position. It's generally used by individuals who are new to the field or making a significant career change.

Artist resume objective example:

Passionate recent graduate with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration, seeking to leverage my creativity and technical skills in a dynamic art studio. Eager to contribute fresh ideas and collaborate with a talented team to create compelling visual stories.

Makeup artist resume sample

Artist resume template

Artist resume template
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Resume for makeup artists | Text version

Professional Summary

Creative and detail-oriented Makeup Artist with over 8 years of experience in the beauty industry. Proficient in makeup application for various occasions including bridal, fashion, editorial, and special effects. Exceptional ability to enhance clients' natural beauty with a focus on client satisfaction and innovative makeup techniques.

Professional Experience

Lead Makeup Artist

Glamour Studio, Los Angeles, CA

March 2019 – Present

  • Apply makeup for brides and bridal parties, ensuring personalized and flawless results.
  • Collaborate with photographers, models, and clients to create makeup looks for fashion shoots and editorials.
  • Develop special effects makeup for film and theater productions, including prosthetics and body painting.
  • Provide makeup consultations and lessons for clients, enhancing their skills and confidence.
  • Manage a team of junior makeup artists, providing training and mentorship.

Freelance Makeup Artist

Los Angeles, CA

June 2016 – February 2019

  • Offered freelance makeup services for weddings, photo shoots, and special events.
  • Built a loyal client base through excellent service and word-of-mouth referrals.
  • Stayed updated on industry trends and new products, incorporating the latest techniques into services.
  • Developed and maintained a professional portfolio showcasing diverse makeup styles and applications.

Education

Diploma in Makeup Artistry

LA Makeup School, Los Angeles, CA

Graduated: May 2016

  • Specialized in bridal, fashion, and special effects makeup.
  • Completed coursework in color theory, makeup techniques, and sanitation practices.

Courses

Advanced Airbrush Techniques

  • Airbrush Academy, 2024

Special Effects Makeup Certification

  • FX Makeup School, 2022

Key Skills

  • Makeup Application. Bridal, Fashion, Editorial, Special Effects
  • Techniques. Contouring, Airbrushing, High-Definition Makeup
  • Product Knowledge. Extensive knowledge of makeup products and tools
  • Creativity. Innovative and creative approach to makeup design
  • Client Relations. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Sanitation. Adherence to hygiene and sanitation standards
  • Time Management. Efficient in managing time and meeting deadlines

This sample artist resume is effective for several reasons:

  • The summary provides a quick overview of experience, skills, and career goals. It immediately grabs the reader’s attention and sets the tone for the rest of the document.
  • The experience section includes both current role and past freelance work, illustrating a comprehensive career in the sphere.
  • Providing a link to Instagram allows potential employers to see examples of her work, which is crucial in a visually-driven field like makeup artistry.
How to showcase your artist resume skills?

Including a variety of skills shows that you have a broad range of abilities and are versatile. This is particularly important in artistic fields where the ability to adapt to different styles and requirements is valued.

Plus, many employers use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan applications. Including a well-defined skills section with relevant keywords increases the likelihood that your artist resume will reach human recruiters.

  • Hard skills are specific, teachable abilities or knowledge sets that are often quantifiable. Such skills for a makeup artist might be airbrushing, contouring, color theory, prosthetics application, etc.
  • Soft skills are often harder to quantify but are crucial for working effectively with clients and teams. Examples include creativity, time management, adaptability, problem-solving, and more.

Properly highlighting both hard and soft skills for an artist resume ensures that you present a well-rounded profile that meets the diverse demands of the field.

Graphic artist resume example

Sample graphic artist resume

Professional Summary

Creative and detail-oriented Graphic Artist with over 12 years of experience in creating engaging and innovative digital and print designs for clients in various industries. Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite and other design software, a strong ability to collaborate with clients to meet their vision. Proven track record of delivering projects on time and exceeding client expectations.

Professional Experience

Senior Graphic Artist

Creative Solutions Agency, San Francisco, CA

March 2018 – Present

  • Lead designer for major branding projects, including logo design and brand identity for startups and established companies.
  • Create digital and print marketing materials, such as brochures, posters, and social media graphics.
  • Collaborate with the web development team to design user-friendly and visually appealing website layouts.
  • Manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery and client satisfaction.
  • Mentor junior designers and provide guidance on design best practices.

Graphic Designer

Design Hub, Los Angeles, CA

July 2015 – February 2018

  • Developed graphic content for clients, including advertisements, flyers, and promotional materials.
  • Worked closely with clients to understand their vision and deliver designs that met their needs.
  • Participated in brainstorming sessions and contributed creative ideas for marketing campaigns.
  • Assisted in the production of print materials, ensuring high-quality output.
  • Maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry trends and software updates.

Freelance Graphic Artist

Remote

June 2012 – June 2015

  • Provided freelance graphic design services to a diverse range of clients, including small businesses and non-profits.
  • Created custom logos, business cards, and marketing materials tailored to client specifications.
  • Developed and maintained a strong online portfolio, leading to new client acquisitions.
  • Managed all aspects of freelance business, from client communication to project delivery.

Education

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Graphic Design

California Institute of the Arts, Valencia, CA

Graduated: May 2012

Key Skills

  • Graphic Design: Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign
  • Digital Art: Sketch, Procreate, CorelDRAW
  • Print Design: Brochures, Posters, Business Cards, Packaging
  • Web Design: UI/UX Design, Adobe XD, Figma
  • Branding: Logo Design, Brand Identity Development
  • Illustration: Vector Art, Digital Illustration, Hand Drawing
  • Project Management: Time Management, Client Communication, Collaboration
  • Typography: Font Selection, Typesetting, Layout Design
  • Animation: After Effects, Motion Graphics
  • Photography: Photo Editing, Retouching

Certifications

  • Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) – Adobe Photoshop (2022)
  • Certificate in UX Design – Nielsen Norman Group (2020)

Awards and Recognitions

  • Best Branding Project – Design Awards 20223
  • Featured Designer – Graphic Design USA Magazine, August 2022

Professional Affiliations

  • Member – American Institute of Graphic Arts (since 2021)
  • Participant – Annual Design Conference (since 2017)

Portfolio

Available at michaelthompsonart.com

Why is this artist resume effective?

  • It highlights specific skills relevant to graphic design, such as proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and the ability to meet client expectations, making it clear that the candidate is well-suited for roles in this field.
  • Relevant certifications highlight commitment to ongoing professional development and mastery of specific techniques.
  • Each bullet point in the experience section focuses on specific responsibilities and accomplishments, providing concrete examples of work.
What educational credentials should I add to my artist resume?

This example of a resume for an artistic job shows that the job seeker has received formal education in the field. This can be essential for building foundational skills and theoretical knowledge.

For entry-level specialists or those transitioning careers, this section provides important context about the background and preparedness for the role.

If you have higher education, don't forget to include:

  • Degree type. Clearly state the type of degree you earned (e.g., Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BS)).
  • Major/concentration. Mention your major or concentration (e.g., Digital Arts, Fine Arts, Graphic Design).
  • Institution. Add the name of the educational institution.
  • Location. Provide the city and state (or country, if applicable) of the institution.
  • Date. List the month and year of your graduation.

3D artist resume sample

3D artist resume template

3D artist resume template
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Resume for 3D artist | Sample text

Professional Summary

Innovative and highly skilled 3D Artist with over 7 years of experience in creating detailed and realistic 3D models, animations, and visual effects for video games, films, and marketing materials. Proficient in industry-standard software, including Autodesk Maya, Blender, and ZBrush.

Experience

Senior 3D Artist

Pixel Dreams Studio, Tampa, FL

May 2021 - Present

  • Lead a team of 5 artists and successfully complete 10 game characters and 5 environment models per project, meeting all project milestones ahead of schedule.
  • Collaborate with art directors, animators, and developers to ensure cohesive visual storytelling and technical execution.
  • Optimize 3D assets for performance without sacrificing visual quality, resulting in reduced polygon count by 30% on average.
  • Mentor junior artists, providing guidance and feedback to help them improve their skills and meet project standards.

3D Artist

Creative Vision Studios, Tampa, FL

July 2017 - April 2021

  • Created high-quality 3D models, textures, and animations for various projects, including video games, commercials, and virtual reality experiences.
  • Worked closely with the creative team to develop concepts and bring them to life through detailed 3D artwork.
  • Implemented feedback from art directors and clients to refine and enhance 3D assets.
  • Managed multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to client specifications.

Education

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Digital Arts

University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA

Graduated in 2017

Courses

Advanced Texturing Techniques

Substance Academy, 2024

Skills

  • 3D Modeling
  • Animation
  • Texturing
  • Blender
  • Photoshop
  • Maya
  • ZBrush
  • Mudbox
  • Rendering
  • Unreal Engine

Links

  • LinkedIn: josephinepoteet
  • Portfolio: josephinepoteet3dart.com

This example of 3D artist resume is strong for several reasons:

  • The professional summary quickly conveys what makes the candidate a strong fit for potential employers.
  • Detailed descriptions of responsibilities and quantifiable achievements demonstrate the impact and effectiveness in previous roles.
  • Accessible portfolio and LinkedIn profile are crucial for showcasing work in a visually-driven field.
How to organize the experience section in an artist resume?

This resume section allows you to showcase your accomplishments, illustrating how you have contributed to projects and what results you have achieved.

Start with your most recent job and work backward. The reverse chronological format is preferred because it highlights your most relevant experience first.

Don't forget to include:

  • Job titles. Use specific professional titles that accurately reflect your role. This helps potential employers quickly understand your position and level of responsibility.
  • Company. Add the name of the organization and its location. This provides context about the work environment and industry.
  • Dates. Clearly state the duration of your employment for each position (month and year). This helps HRs understand the length of your experience.
  • Responsibilities and achievements. Use bullet points to list your responsibilities and achievements. This allows employers to quickly scan your key contributions.
  • Action verbs. Start each bullet point with a strong action verb (e.g., "Designed", "Developed", "Collaborated") to make your contributions clear and dynamic.

Conclusion

Crafting a compelling artist resume is a foundational step towards advancing your career. Remember, your application is not just a list of achievements—it's a narrative of your artistic journey and a powerful tool to open doors to new opportunities.

As you craft your resume for an artistic job, keep in mind the tips and examples discussed in this guide. Tailor the document to reflect your specific strengths and goals, and continuously update it as your career evolves.

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