People in this occupation:
Craft instructors and makers of musical instruments are included in this group. Most craftspersons are self-employed. Floral arrangers are usually employed in florist shops and floral departments of retail establishments or may be self-employed. Craft instructors are employed by artisan guilds, colleges, private studios and recreational organizations. People in these occupations should be highly creative and enjoy careful, precise work. They should have the ability to work independently, as well as have good interpersonal skills to interact with clients or teach students. They should also have knowledge of computers and software, as well as online commerce and marketing.
Source: Estimated median employment income based on 2021 Job Bank median hourly wage rate (median annual salary = hourly wage rate x 40 (hours per week) x 52.14 (weeks per year))
Note:Estimated median employment income based on 2021 Job Bank median hourly wage rate (median annual salary = hourly wage rate x 40 (hours per week) x 52.14 (weeks per year))
Source: 2021 Job Bank Wage Report
Source: B.C. Labour Market Outlook
10 year expected job openings: 1,430
Carvers:
Glass blowers:
Metal arts workers:
Potters:
Stained glass artists:
Instrument makers:
Weavers:
Artistic floral arrangers:
Craft instructors:
Most artisans and craftspersons are self-employed and set their own hours. They usually spend a great deal of time and effort building a reputation and selling their artwork. Most work in private studios or in their own homes, but some may also share a studio space where they may also exhibit their work.
Studio surroundings are usually bright and well-ventilated. However, artisans and craftspersons may be exposed to fumes from glue, paint, ink and other materials such as dust or residue from filings, splattered paint or spilled fluids. Workers who sit for long periods of time may experience back pain, eyestrain or fatigue.
Workers who do repetitive actions over many years may develop carpal tunnel syndrome and joint problems, as well as allergies to certain materials used, such as wool.
Increasingly, these workers use computers as part of their marketing, inventory keeping, etc.
Source: 2016 Census
Artisans and craftspersons may receive training from a college, artisan guild or private studio, or may learn through on-the-job training. Other requirements may include:
For more information about programs offered specifically for this career, visit EducationPlannerBC.
Every job calls for a certain set of skills. Knowing those skills is the first step in finding a good career fit.
Here, you will find the 35 most relevant workplace skills. Some are more important to achieving success in a certain career than others. These skills may come naturally to you or you may need to gain them through education, training and experience.
See the list of work-related skills below, ranked in order of importance for this career. You’ll also find the skill strength needed, letting you know how capable you must be in that skill.
Check out the list and see if this career matches your skills—take that first step!
Most job opportunities over the next few years will result from retirements rather than job creation.
The health of the Tourism industry has an impact on job prospects, since visitors to the province often purchase art and craft products as mementos and gifts. In addition, the resurgence of First Nations artwork is helping to create a larger international market for the work of B.C.'s artisans and craftspersons.
Since the majority of artisans and craftspersons are self-employed, these workers must be able to combine creative talent with the small business skills of marketing, sales and sound financial management.
The internet is allowing more artisans and craftspersons to expand their marketing efforts and connect directly with buyers, eliminating the commissions paid to galleries and other intermediaries. Craftspersons that use multiple marketing choices (i.e., via the internet, trade shows, craft shows, studio sales, etc.) in addition to retail stores are likely to have greater success.
Those with higher education qualifications may be able to increase their income by teaching in their field.
Career paths
Some artisans and craftspersons begin their careers in an informal apprenticeship under a more experienced worker.
With experience, workers may start their own businesses.
With additional education, some artisans may teach at a community college or university.
Additional resources