Art is an extremely diverse landscape that can cover 3D mediums such as sculpture, fashion design or interior design, but it can also cover 2D modes of expression such as photography, graphic design or computer-aided design for digital applications. They are all based in color interaction, perspective, composition and aesthetics.
There is almost no "best way" to get educated for a career as an artist or graphic designer, simply because expressive arts are so wildly diverse and approached by so many people in so many different ways. If you were to stick to the basics, however, taking coursework in these types of classes should be essential to all aspiring artists and designers:
After those courses are completed, you should have a good idea where your talents are centered.
If the option is open to you, make sure you enroll in an accredited art school, or accredited arts program at a university, community college or career college. This is especially important if you are hoping to build your professional resume around standardized coursework. If your art school isn't accredited, you may just be taking an expensive equivalent of a crafts course that just teaches practical methods.
Salary Range:
$13,440 - $105,280
Education Level (minimum):
Bachelor degree in art, design or related field
Growth Outlook (2002 - 2012):
10 - 20%