Craft artist
Also known as
Work environment
- Usually work irregular and long hours but may work part time
- Usually work in studios or workshops and may travel locally or nationally
- Need to be creative, practical and methodical
Salary information
Typical tasks
- Create objects for sale and exhibition
- Prepare objects for display
- Develop artistic and design concepts
- Choose materials
- Promote products and activities
- Build models
- Create patterns and templates
- Draw technical illustrations
- Get instructions from clients for artwork
- Develop promotional strategies and plans
Outlook
Craft artists in New Zealand work within a creative sector that values originality, cultural identity, sustainability and locally made products. The outlook is mixed because income can depend on commissions, sales, exhibitions, tourism and online markets. Digital platforms are helping artists reach wider audiences, while global interest in handmade, ethical and culturally distinctive work creates opportunities for strong, well-presented creative practice.
What employers and industry want in graduates
- Strong creative and practical making skills
- Original ideas and a clear personal style
- Good attention to detail and quality
- Ability to promote and sell work online and in person
- Time management for commissions, markets or exhibitions
- Understanding of cultural respect, sustainability and materials
AUT programmes
- Bachelor of Visual Arts Te Tohu Paetahi mō Toi Ataata
- Bachelor of Design Te Tohu Paetahi mō te Hoahoa
The above is a suggestion only and a starting point. You may need to meet other criteria or take additional steps to work in this career.
Content is reviewed by our experts, but information can change over time. Some content is created with AI support.
This data is sourced from the Tertiary Education Commission through the Tahatū Career Navigator website (www.tahtu.govt.nz) and used under the CC BY 4.0 licence. Some of the information has been modified by AUT. TEC has not approved, endorsed or tested these modifications. TEC will not be held accountable for any errors within this data.