Artists Pay Data UK — 2025

Artists roles in the UK earn a median of £45,552 per year, equivalent to £20.10 per hour as of 2025. This represents a 16.9% increase in annual pay compared to the previous year. Pay varies across the UK, ranging from £38,397 to £72,236 per year.

How Pay Varies Across the UK

Each bar shows how many areas of the UK have a median annual pay in that range for Artists roles. The dashed line marks the national median.

Based on sub-regional area data. Want a precise figure for your area?

About Artists

Artists create artistic works using appropriate techniques, materials and media; design artwork and illustrations; and restore damaged pieces of art.

Typical Tasks and Duties

• conceives and develops ideas and ways of working for artistic composition
• selects appropriate materials, medium and method
• prepares sketches, scale drawings or colour schemes
• builds up composition into finished work by carving, sculpting, etching, painting, engraving, drawing, etc.
• approaches managers of galleries and exhibitions in order to get finished work displayed
• uses artistic skills to restore damaged artworks
• liaises with writers and publishers to produce book illustrations
• markets and sells finished work directly to customers
• produces works on commission basis for clients

Entry Routes and Qualifications

No specific academic qualifications are required although a variety of vocational qualifications, degrees and postgraduate courses are available. Entry can be based upon portfolio work.

Related Occupations

Salary data is sourced from official UK pay datasets and updated periodically.