Art Directors

The extent to which art director positions are in demand, like many other positions, depends on the economy in general; when times are tough, people and businesses spend less, and cutbacks are made. When the economy is healthy, employment prospects for art directors will be favorable. During the pandemic in 2020 and 2021, employment in advertising, publishing, and other businesses slowed and demand for art directors decreased. As the economy rebounds, the outlook has brightened for art directors, with faster than average employment predicted through 2032, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. People working with new media are increasingly looking for artists and directors to promote new and existing products and services, enhance their Web sites, develop new multimedia programs, and create multidimensional visuals. People who can quickly and creatively generate new concepts and ideas will be in demand.

However, it is important to note that those wishing to enter the field will encounter keen competition for salaried, staff positions as well as for freelance work. And although various media, Web sites, and mobile platforms are expected to provide many opportunities for artists and art directors, some firms are hiring employees without formal art or design training to use design software and oversee work.

Decline in the employment of art directors in the publishing industry is expected in the coming years. Opportunities are declining at print publications, but growing at companies that produce digital publications and mobile content. Art directors in digital publishing need strong Web design skills.

Employment in the motion picture and video industries is expected to grow faster than the average through 2032. Strong demand from audiences for more movies and television shows (especially reality television and programming from streaming services) will continue to generate opportunities. Art directors play a major role in the look of films, television shows, and videos and, as a result, will continue to be in steady demand in coming years, but it is extremely difficult to break into this field. Only the most experienced and skilled art directors will find steady employment.