This should come as little surprise, but creativity and the discipline to harness that creativity is the first and foremost thing to pursue. If you are a high school student, most public schools feature at least cursory art classes like drawing, sculpture, and 2D design. You should also involve yourself in any technical artistic disciplines such as Photography, CAD drafting and Video or Film, if you can afford to.
If you are past high school and are simply searching for a change to a creative career, search for local art guilds based in the medium you are interested in. Many art guilds are cheap to join, feature beginner, intermediate and master class seminars and workshops, and of course, will allow you to network with local professional artists and hobbyists. If you live in an area that doesn't seem to have any art guilds, you can always join one "virtually" by signing up for groups online.
Taking art classes at local universities, community colleges or career colleges is a great way to learn how to cultivate your creative eye, and also to help you become more disciplined with your creativity. In today's modern educational landscape, you can now even take some art and graphic design courses online, or as correspondence courses from some quite prestigious schools.
Salary Range:
$13,440 - $105,280
Education Level (minimum):
Bachelor degree in art, design or related field
Growth Outlook (2002 - 2012):
10 - 20%