Description

Production artists (graphic arts) assists clients in creating quality materials for their clients, including brochures, posters, signs, and banners. The production artist collaborates with clients to learn about their requirements and needs and works within these guidelines to design unforgettable graphic designs that are able to satisfy the customers' requirements.

The artist typically asks questions to the client in order to fully understand the goal and requirements for each task. The client might have their own artwork images, logos, or even photos which the artist in charge of production must include as well. The artist will then create several "proofs" to be approved by the client and then - after making any needed corrections, sees the approved work go during the process of printing to ensure quality control. Production artists in modern times generally does the majority of their work on computers and must be comfortable using this system. In addition, the producer is expected to produce physical copies of their finished work by using printing equipment.

Typically Production artists work in an organization that is involved in artistic and graphic work to promote their business. This could be anything from sign companies to professional print shops to working as a part of a larger team for marketing within a company's art department.

For a job as a production artist one typically requires at the very least vocational education as well as an associate's or bachelor's level in graphic art. A lot of companies are looking for knowledge in the area and would like to view a potential artist's portfolio. Anyone who is interested in this field should be proficient with the appropriate software. Graphic artists who produce generally work in a computer studio during normal working hours, however other hours and/or extra ones may be needed.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a Production Artist in the United States with 9+ years of experience, your main responsibilities include:

  • Create and modify digital and print assets, such as brochures, banners, and packaging designs, ensuring visual consistency and adherence to brand guidelines.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including designers and marketing managers, to execute and finalize artwork projects, providing technical expertise and attention to detail.
  • Conduct quality checks on finalized designs, reviewing colors, fonts, and image resolutions to ensure accuracy and compatibility across different mediums and platforms.
  • Manage and organize digital assets, maintaining an efficient filing system for easy access and retrieval, while also adhering to copyright and licensing regulations.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a Production Artist (Graphic Arts) job role, the following qualifications are required:

  • Proficiency in graphic design software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) to create and edit visuals, layouts, and digital artwork.
  • Strong attention to detail and an eye for aesthetics to ensure consistent brand representation and adherence to design guidelines.
  • Knowledge of printing processes, color management, and pre-press techniques to prepare files for printing and production.
  • Time management skills to handle multiple projects simultaneously, meet deadlines, and prioritize tasks effectively.

Essential Skills For Production Artist (Graphic Arts)

1

Design Thinking

2

Graphics

3

Artistic

4

Visualization (Computer Graphics)

Career Prospects

With over 9 years of experience as a Production Artist in Graphic Arts in the United States, professionals in this field may consider alternative roles to further their career. Here are following options to explore:

  • Art Director: This role involves overseeing and managing creative projects, including directing teams of designers and artists, ensuring quality output, and maintaining brand consistency.
  • UX Designer: With a focus on user experience, this role involves creating intuitive and visually appealing interfaces for websites, applications, and digital platforms.
  • Print Production Manager: Responsible for overseeing the end-to-end print production process, this role ensures timely delivery, cost effectiveness, and quality control of printed materials.
  • Creative Services Manager: This position involves managing a team of creatives, coordinating projects, developing creative strategies, and ensuring the delivery of effective marketing materials.

How to Learn

According to recent data, the job role of Production Artist (Graphic Arts) in the United States is expected to experience steady growth in the market. Over the past ten years, the demand for professionals in this field has progressively increased, with a positive outlook for the future. The industry offers ample employment opportunities, with a projected rise expected in the coming years. The growth in digital media, advertising, and design sectors has fueled the demand for Production Artists, leading to a promising job market for individuals with relevant skills and qualifications.