Your portfolio shows what you create. An artist resume shows who you are as a professional. Galleries, studios, and clients don’t just want to see your work—they want proof of your skills, training, exhibitions, and achievements.
The challenge? Making a resume that’s both professional and true to your artistic voice. Too flashy, and it feels unpolished. Too plain, and it doesn’t reflect your creativity. The right artist resume finds the middle ground.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to master the art of the resume:
- Answers to FAQs on topics like writing a resume with no experience and including a portfolio.
- Artist resume examples for 9 diverse creative roles, from tattoo to VFX.
- Free artist resume templates and formats optimized for ATS compliance.
- Expert advice on crafting achievement-focused work experience entries.
- Lists of essential skills and action verbs for the creative industry.
Artist Resumes Examples
- Artist Resume
- Tattoo Artist Resume
- Storyboard Artist Resume
- 3D Artist Resume
- Concept Artist Resume
- Teaching Artist Resume
- Fine Artist Resume
- VFX Artist Resume
- Lash Artist Resume
Artist Resume Template
Why This Resume Is Good:
This resume effectively highlights the artist’s diverse skill set and experiences, providing a clear narrative of their career development. It includes relevant sections such as exhibitions and awards that enhance credibility, while the clean layout makes it easy for potential employers or galleries to assess the artist’s qualifications at a glance.
Artist Resume Example | Text Sample
Emily Carter
📍 New York, NY | ✉️ emily.carter@email.com | 📞 (123) 456-7890 | 🎨 www.emilycarterart.com
Professional Summary
Creative fine artist with 8+ years of experience in painting, digital art, and mixed media. Exhibited in national galleries and recognized for innovative visual storytelling. Adept at balancing artistic vision with client needs.
Key Skills
- Painting (Oil, Acrylic, Watercolor)
- Digital Illustration (Photoshop, Procreate)
- Mixed Media & Installations
- Gallery Exhibition Preparation
- Art Commissions & Client Collaboration
- Time Management & Creative Direction
Professional Experience
Freelance Artist
New York, NY | 2016–Present
- Created commissioned artwork for private collectors and corporate clients.
- Participated in 15+ gallery exhibitions, including national art shows.
- Collaborated with interior designers for artwork integration in luxury spaces.
Resident Artist – City Art Collective
2018–2020
- Developed large-scale mural projects showcased in public spaces.
- Conducted artist workshops and mentored emerging local artists.
Education & Training
BFA in Fine Arts – Pratt Institute
Certificate in Digital Illustration – School of Visual Arts
Certifications
- Adobe Certified Illustrator Expert
- Art Therapy Workshop Certification
Accomplishments
- Featured in Art Monthly Magazine (2021)
- Winner, Emerging Artist Award – NY Art Expo (2020)
Why The Above Resume Example Is Good:
- Balances traditional and digital mediums.
- Highlights gallery exhibitions and awards for credibility.
- Includes client commissions and teaching roles.
Tattoo Artist Resume Template
Why This Resume Is Good:
This resume effectively highlights the candidate’s artistic skills, relevant experience, and education in tattoo artistry, making it appealing to potential employers. It emphasizes not just technical abilities but also a commitment to client satisfaction and safety, essential traits in the tattoo industry.
Tattoo Artist Resume Example | Text Sample
Marcus Reed
📍 Los Angeles, CA | ✉️ marcus.reed@email.com | 📞 (123) 456-7890 | 🖋️ www.inkbyreed.com
Professional Summary
Experienced tattoo artist with 7+ years specializing in realism and black & gray tattoos. Known for precision, creativity, and maintaining the highest health and safety standards. Passionate about collaborating with clients to bring their vision to life.
Key Skills
- Custom Tattoo Design (Black & Gray, Realism, Neo-Traditional)
- Freehand Drawing & Stencil Creation
- Sterilization & Health Standards Compliance
- Client Communication & Aftercare Education
- Color Theory & Skin Tone Matching
- Portfolio Development
Professional Experience
Lead Tattoo Artist – Ink Haven Studio
Los Angeles, CA | 2018–Present
- Completed 1,000+ tattoos across multiple styles with high client satisfaction.
- Mentored junior artists in technique and customer service.
- Maintained strict compliance with sterilization protocols.
Apprentice & Junior Artist – Black Rose Tattoo
2016–2018
- Assisted senior artists with design prep and equipment setup.
- Gained hands-on experience in shading, lining, and color packing.
Education & Training
Art & Design Program – California Institute of the Arts
Tattoo Apprenticeship – Black Rose Tattoo
Certifications
- Bloodborne Pathogens Certification
- State Tattoo License (CA)
Accomplishments
- Featured at LA Tattoo Convention (2022)
- Work published in Tattoo Life Magazine (2021)
Why The Above Resume Example Is Good:
- Emphasizes artistic skill and client collaboration.
- Includes licenses and health/safety certifications.
- Demonstrates career growth from apprentice to lead artist.
Storyboard Artist Resume Template
Why This Resume Is Good:
This resume is effective because it clearly showcases the candidate’s relevant experience, skills, and education, all of which are crucial for a Storyboard Artist role. The inclusion of specific software proficiencies and notable projects adds credibility, while a well-structured format ensures readability and professionalism.
Storyboard Artist Resume Example | Text Sample
Sophia Nguyen
📍 Burbank, CA | ✉️ sophia.nguyen@email.com | 📞 (123) 456-7890 | 🎬 www.sophianartboards.com
Professional Summary
Storyboard artist with 6+ years of experience creating dynamic visual narratives for film, TV, and animation. Skilled at translating scripts into compelling visuals while collaborating with directors and writers. Strong knowledge of cinematic language and pacing.
Key Skills
- Storyboarding & Visual Development
- Script Breakdown & Scene Planning
- Digital Illustration (Photoshop, Storyboard Pro)
- Camera Angles & Cinematic Framing
- Collaboration with Directors & Writers
- Time Management & Deadline Adherence
Professional Experience
Storyboard Artist – DreamWorks Animation
Glendale, CA | 2020–Present
- Created storyboards for animated series aired on Netflix.
- Collaborated with creative team to refine pacing, angles, and transitions.
- Assisted directors in visualizing key action sequences.
Freelance Storyboard Artist – Commercials & Short Films
2016–2020
- Produced storyboards for advertising agencies and indie filmmakers.
- Worked with clients to visualize scripts and pitches.
- Delivered quick turnaround for time-sensitive projects.
Education & Training
BFA in Animation – California Institute of the Arts
Certificate in Cinematic Storyboarding – Gnomon School
Certifications
- Adobe Photoshop Expert
- Toon Boom Storyboard Pro Certification
Accomplishments
- Awarded “Best Storyboard Artist” at Indie Film Festival (2019)
- Credits in 10+ short films and animated projects
Why The Above Resume Example Is Good:
- Highlights industry-recognized tools like Storyboard Pro.
- Strong animation and film studio experience.
- Balances creativity with technical cinematic knowledge.
3D Artist Resume Template
Why This Resume Is Good:
This resume sample is effective because it clearly showcases the candidate’s relevant skills and experiences tailored specifically for a 3D Artist role. The structured format allows hiring managers to quickly assess qualifications, while the inclusion of a portfolio link provides immediate access to the candidate’s work.
3D Artist Resume Example | Text Sample
Jason Kim
📍 Los Angeles, CA | ✉️ jason.kim@email.com | 📞 (123) 456-7890 | 🎮 www.jason3dart.com
Professional Summary
3D artist with 7+ years of experience creating models, textures, and environments for games and film. Skilled in Maya, Blender, and ZBrush, with strong knowledge of PBR workflows and real-time rendering. Recognized for delivering high-quality assets under tight deadlines.
Key Skills
- 3D Modeling & Sculpting
- Texturing & UV Mapping
- Rigging & Animation Basics
- PBR Workflow & Real-Time Rendering
- Maya, Blender, ZBrush, Substance Painter
- Collaboration with Designers & Developers
Professional Experience
3D Environment Artist – Ubisoft
Los Angeles, CA | 2020–Present
- Created detailed 3D environments for AAA open-world game.
- Collaborated with level designers to balance performance and visuals.
- Developed modular assets reused across multiple levels.
Freelance 3D Artist – Film & Indie Games
2015–2020
- Produced models and assets for short films and mobile games.
- Optimized assets for performance on mobile platforms.
- Coordinated with indie teams for seamless integration into Unity/Unreal.
Education & Training
BFA in Digital Art – Savannah College of Art and Design
Certificate in Game Art – Gnomon School of VFX
Certifications
- Autodesk Maya Certified Professional
- Unreal Engine Asset Creation Certification
Accomplishments
- Contributed to Game of the Year nominee (2022).
- Featured work in 3D World Magazine.
Why The Above Resume Example Is Good:
- Strong balance of technical and artistic skills.
- Includes AAA studio and freelance experience.
- Uses software-specific certifications for credibility.
Concept Artist Resume Template
Why This Resume Is Good:
This resume effectively showcases the candidate’s relevant experience and skills tailored specifically for a Concept Artist position. The clear layout, alongside a strong summary and detailed work history, highlights their artistic journey and contributions to significant projects, making it appealing to potential employers.
Concept Artist Resume Example | Text Sample
Olivia Ramirez
📍 Los Angeles, CA | ✉️ olivia.ramirez@email.com | 📞 (123) 456-7890 | 🎨 www.oliviarconcepts.com
Professional Summary
Imaginative concept artist with 6+ years of experience designing characters, environments, and props for film, animation, and games. Skilled at visual storytelling and bringing abstract ideas to life through detailed illustrations.
Key Skills
- Concept Art & Visual Development
- Character & Environment Design
- Digital Painting (Photoshop, Procreate)
- Color Theory & Lighting
- Sketching & Rapid Ideation
- Collaboration with Art Directors
Professional Experience
Concept Artist – Riot Games
Los Angeles, CA | 2019–Present
- Designed character concepts for multiplayer online games.
- Collaborated with 3D artists to ensure design fidelity in final models.
- Produced environment concepts that shaped the visual style of new maps.
Freelance Concept Artist – Film & Indie Games
2016–2019
- Created concept art for indie film projects and mobile games.
- Delivered quick-turnaround sketches to directors and producers.
- Enhanced mood boards with digital paintings and ideation.
Education & Training
BFA in Illustration – Rhode Island School of Design
Concept Art Masterclass – Schoolism
Certifications
- Adobe Photoshop Certified Expert
- Digital Painting Techniques Certification
Accomplishments
- Art featured in ImagineFX Magazine (2021).
- Concept art displayed at Game Developers Conference (GDC).
Why The Above Resume Example Is Good:
- Focuses on visual creativity and design thinking.
- Shows high-profile studio credits.
- Balances concept speed and polish for production needs.
Teaching Artist Resume Template
Why This Resume Is Good:
This resume effectively showcases Jessica’s relevant experience, skills, and dedication to arts education. It provides a clear summary and structured work history, emphasizing her qualifications for a Teaching Artist role. Additionally, the inclusion of optional sections highlights her community involvement and commitment to the arts, making her a strong candidate.
Teaching Artist Resume Example | Text Sample
Rachel Thompson
📍 Chicago, IL | ✉️ rachel.thompson@email.com | 📞 (123) 456-7890 | 🎭 www.rachelartteach.com
Professional Summary
Dedicated teaching artist with 9+ years of experience combining creative practice with arts education. Skilled in leading workshops, developing arts curricula, and mentoring students across age groups. Experienced in community arts programs and school partnerships.
Key Skills
- Arts Education & Curriculum Development
- Workshop Facilitation
- Drawing, Painting & Theater Techniques
- Student Engagement & Mentorship
- Classroom Management & Collaboration
- Arts Integration with Core Subjects
Professional Experience
Teaching Artist – Chicago Arts Partnership in Education
2016–Present
- Designed and taught arts-integrated lessons for K–12 students.
- Facilitated after-school arts programs and community workshops.
- Collaborated with teachers to align art lessons with academic standards.
Freelance Teaching Artist
2012–2016
- Led summer art camps and weekend workshops.
- Conducted portfolio preparation courses for high school students.
- Mentored aspiring artists applying to art schools.
Education & Training
BFA in Fine Arts – School of the Art Institute of Chicago
MA in Arts Education – Columbia College Chicago
Certifications
- Illinois Teaching Certification (Arts)
- Classroom Management Training
Accomplishments
- Awarded Community Arts Leadership Award (2020).
- Helped 30+ students gain acceptance into art programs.
Why The Above Resume Example Is Good:
- Blends artistic expertise with teaching ability.
- Emphasizes community engagement and student mentorship.
- Demonstrates impact with student success and awards.
Fine Artist Resume Template
Why This Resume Is Good:
This resume effectively showcases the candidate’s artistic skills, relevant experience, and educational background, while also highlighting exhibitions and awards that enhance credibility. It presents a well-rounded profile that reflects both artistic talent and professional engagement in the art community.
Fine Artist Resume Example | Text Sample
Hannah Lewis
📍 New York, NY | ✉️ hannah.lewis@email.com | 📞 (123) 456-7890 | 🎨 www.hannahlewisfineart.com
Professional Summary
Accomplished fine artist with 10+ years of experience in painting, sculpture, and installations. Exhibited in galleries across the U.S. and internationally. Known for blending contemporary techniques with traditional mediums to create thought-provoking work.
Key Skills
- Oil, Acrylic & Watercolor Painting
- Sculpture & Mixed Media
- Exhibition Preparation & Curation
- Art Commissions & Collectors Relations
- Digital Art for Installations
- Art History & Visual Storytelling
Professional Experience
Freelance Fine Artist
2013–Present
- Created commissioned artwork for private collectors and institutions.
- Exhibited in 20+ group and solo gallery shows.
- Designed installations featured in public spaces.
Resident Artist – International Arts Collective
2017–2019
- Developed cross-cultural art projects in collaboration with global artists.
- Mentored emerging artists in professional practice.
Education & Training
MFA in Fine Arts – Yale University
BFA in Painting – Rhode Island School of Design
Certifications
- Adobe Creative Suite Certified
- Art Therapy Techniques Workshop
Accomplishments
- Winner, International Contemporary Artist Award (2021)
- Artwork featured in Art in America and Frieze Magazine
Why The Above Resume Example Is Good:
- Highlights exhibitions and international recognition.
- Balances freelance work with institutional collaborations.
- Demonstrates range across traditional and contemporary mediums.
VFX Artist Resume Template
Why This Resume Is Good:
This resume effectively showcases the candidate’s relevant experience, technical skills, and educational background, all tailored to the VFX industry. The inclusion of a portfolio link allows potential employers to view the candidate’s work directly, enhancing the overall appeal.
VFX Artist Resume Example | Text Sample
Daniel White
📍 Los Angeles, CA | ✉️ daniel.white@email.com | 📞 (123) 456-7890 | 🎥 www.danielvfx.com
Professional Summary
Visual Effects Artist with 7+ years of experience creating CGI, compositing, and special effects for film and television. Skilled in After Effects, Nuke, and Houdini. Recognized for blending technical expertise with creative problem-solving.
Key Skills
- Compositing & CGI
- Motion Graphics & Simulation Effects
- Green Screen & Rotoscoping
- Lighting, Texturing & Rendering
- Software: Nuke, Houdini, After Effects, Maya
- Collaboration with Directors & VFX Supervisors
Professional Experience
VFX Artist – Marvel Studios (Contract)
2019–Present
- Created complex CGI sequences for a major superhero film.
- Collaborated with animators and supervisors to ensure seamless integration.
- Delivered final assets under tight production deadlines.
Compositor – Freelance Projects
2015–2019
- Produced VFX for indie films and commercials.
- Developed visual effects pipelines for small studios.
- Ensured consistent quality across multiple short-form projects.
Education & Training
BFA in Digital Arts – Savannah College of Art and Design
Advanced VFX Training – Gnomon School of Visual Effects
Certifications
- Nuke Compositing Certified
- Houdini FX Certification
Accomplishments
- Credited on 3 blockbuster films (2019–2023).
- Nominated for VES Award for Best Compositing in a Feature Film (2022).
Why The Above Resume Example Is Good:
- Highlights blockbuster film credits.
- Includes technical depth with major software tools.
- Demonstrates balance of freelance and studio projects.
Lash Artist Resume Template
Why This Resume Is Good:
This resume effectively showcases the lash artist’s skills and experience in a clear and organized format. By including client testimonials and certifications, it strengthens their credibility and appeal to potential employers, making it an excellent representation of their professional capabilities.
Lash Artist Resume Example | Text Sample
Jasmine Miller
📍 Miami, FL | ✉️ jasmine.miller@email.com | 📞 (123) 456-7890 | 💄 www.jasminelashes.com
Professional Summary
Certified lash artist with 5+ years of experience in eyelash extensions, styling, and beauty care. Skilled at customizing lash looks to enhance clients’ features. Known for precision, client service, and maintaining the highest hygiene standards.
Key Skills
- Classic, Hybrid & Volume Lash Extensions
- Lash Lifts & Tints
- Client Consultation & Styling
- Sanitation & Safety Compliance
- Time Management & Scheduling
- Customer Service & Retention
Professional Experience
Lash Artist – Luxe Beauty Studio
Miami, FL | 2019–Present
- Applied customized lash extensions to 15+ clients daily.
- Retained 90% of repeat clients through quality and service.
- Trained junior lash artists on best practices.
Freelance Lash Technician
2017–2019
- Built personal client base through word-of-mouth and social media.
- Managed bookings, payments, and consultations independently.
Education & Training
Licensed Cosmetologist – Florida Board of Cosmetology
Advanced Lash Certification – Borboleta Beauty
Certifications
- Lash Extension Specialist Certification
- Bloodborne Pathogens & Sanitation Certified
Accomplishments
- Voted “Top Lash Artist” in Miami Beauty Awards (2022).
- Social media following of 15K+ showcasing lash designs.
Why The Above Resume Example Is Good:
- Highlights technical beauty skills and client service.
- Includes licenses and certifications for credibility.
- Balances studio and freelance experience.
How to Write an Artist Resume
Resume Summary
A resume summary is a short paragraph (2–4 sentences) at the top of your resume. For artists, it’s where you highlight your skills, achievements, and creative identity in a way that’s both professional and easy to scan.
Below are copy-paste ready artist resume summaries, written in two versions for each role:
- ATS-Optimized: Short, keyword-focused, and system-friendly.
- Achievement-Driven: Specific, high-impact, and memorable.
No Experience Artist
ATS-Optimized:
“Motivated emerging artist with strong skills in drawing, painting, and digital illustration. Recently trained in Fine Arts and eager to apply creativity to collaborative projects and exhibitions.”
Achievement-Driven:
“Passionate aspiring artist with recent Fine Arts coursework and a growing portfolio of painting and digital design projects. Recognized for strong technical ability and dedication to developing a professional career in the arts.”
Entry-Level Artist
ATS-Optimized:
“Creative Fine Arts graduate skilled in painting, sketching, and Adobe Creative Suite. Focused on producing original concepts and contributing to professional exhibitions and commissions.”
Achievement-Driven:
“Recent Fine Arts graduate with showcased works in student exhibitions and freelance illustration projects. Skilled in digital and traditional mediums with proven ability to deliver client-oriented designs.”
Experienced Fine Artist
ATS-Optimized:
“Fine Artist with 10+ years of studio practice and 7 solo exhibitions in national galleries. Skilled in oil painting, mixed media sculpture, and portfolio curation with strong client relationship management.”
Achievement-Driven:
“Award-winning Fine Artist with 10+ years of experience and 7 successful solo exhibitions across national galleries. Recognized for large-scale oil painting and mixed media sculpture, with expertise in client collaboration and portfolio presentation.”
Tattoo Artist
ATS-Optimized:
“Licensed tattoo artist with 5+ years of experience creating custom designs. Skilled in both traditional and modern tattooing techniques with strong focus on hygiene and client satisfaction.”
Achievement-Driven:
“Experienced tattoo artist with 5+ years of delivering over 500 custom tattoos for diverse clientele. Recognized for artistic precision, clean execution, and ability to translate client concepts into unique designs.”
Storyboard Artist
ATS-Optimized:
“Storyboard artist with 6+ years of experience translating scripts into clear visual sequences. Skilled in illustration, animation, and digital storyboarding software.”
Achievement-Driven:
“Storyboard artist with 6+ years of experience supporting ad campaigns, films, and animation projects. Proven ability to collaborate with directors and teams to create engaging, visually accurate storyboards.”
3D Artist
ATS-Optimized:
“3D artist specializing in modeling, texturing, and rendering for gaming and animation. Proficient in Maya, Blender, and ZBrush with a focus on detail and realism.”
Achievement-Driven:
“Experienced 3D artist with 7+ years in game and film production. Delivered high-quality models and textures using Maya, Blender, and ZBrush, contributing to award-winning animation projects.”
Teaching Artist
ATS-Optimized:
“Teaching artist with 7+ years of experience leading workshops and classes. Skilled in curriculum design, fostering creativity, and guiding students in both traditional and digital art.”
Achievement-Driven:
“Teaching artist with 7+ years of conducting workshops and community art programs. Recognized for developing creative curricula and mentoring students to showcase work in local exhibitions.”
Resume Objective
A resume objective is different from a summary. Instead of focusing on past achievements, it highlights your career goals and what you aim to contribute. It’s best for:
- Fresh graduates or entry-level artists with little experience
- Career changers moving into art from another field
- Apprentices or trainees applying for their first role
No Experience Artist Objective
ATS-Optimized:
“Recent Fine Arts graduate seeking an entry-level role to apply skills in painting, sketching, and digital illustration while contributing to professional projects and exhibitions.”
Achievement-Driven:
“Emerging artist eager to build a career in visual arts by applying strong foundation in drawing and digital design. Seeking opportunities to assist in studio work and develop a professional portfolio.”
Tattoo Apprentice Objective
ATS-Optimized:
“Passionate artist seeking an apprenticeship position to develop tattooing skills under experienced professionals. Committed to learning design, technique, and client care.”
Achievement-Driven:
“Detail-oriented art graduate pursuing a tattoo apprenticeship to refine technical skills and artistic style. Dedicated to building a career in tattoo artistry with focus on precision and client experience.”
Storyboard Artist (Career Starter) Objective
ATS-Optimized:
“Recent Animation graduate seeking a junior storyboard artist role to apply skills in visual storytelling and digital illustration software.”
Achievement-Driven:
“Creative animation graduate aiming to contribute as a storyboard artist by translating scripts into engaging visual narratives. Eager to collaborate with creative teams on films, ads, and digital content.”
Career Changer to Fine Arts Objective
ATS-Optimized:
“Marketing professional transitioning to Fine Arts, seeking opportunities to apply creative skills and formal art training to exhibitions and commissioned projects.”
Achievement-Driven:
“Former marketing strategist pursuing a career in Fine Arts after completing advanced painting and sculpture coursework. Bringing strong project management and creative storytelling skills to new artistic collaborations.”
Tips for Writing an Artist Resume Summary & Objective
- Keep it short: Aim for 2–4 sentences (40–60 words).
- Lead with strengths: Start with your most relevant skill, role, or achievement.
- Use keywords: Include terms like painting, digital illustration, tattoo design, 3D modeling, exhibitions, etc. to pass ATS filters.
- Tailor to the role: A storyboard artist summary should highlight storyboarding skills, while a tattoo artist objective should stress precision and hygiene.
- Show achievements (Summary): Use numbers or specifics if possible (e.g., “7 solo exhibitions,” “500+ tattoos completed”).
- Show goals (Objective): Keep it forward-looking and role-specific (“seeking apprenticeship,” “aiming to contribute to gallery projects”).
- Avoid generic fluff: Phrases like “hardworking artist passionate about art” don’t add value—be concrete.
- No “I” statements: Write in third-person professional tone (e.g., “Award-winning artist with…” not “I am an artist who…”).
- Skip soft requests: Avoid ending with “References available on request” or unnecessary filler.
- Balance creativity + professionalism: Let your portfolio show personality; let your summary/objective show structure and clarity.
Read More :- Resume Summary For Multiple Jobs
Ready to Land Your Next Job?
Don’t let your resume get lost in the stack. Build a professional, ATS-friendly resume that highlights your leadership, achievements, and industry expertise.
Education & Training: Proving Your Foundation
For artists, this section extends beyond a simple degree listing. It proves the formal and continuous development of your craft, technical expertise, and professional standards. Always prioritize relevance and use a clear, professional format.
Fine Artist
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Painting
Rhode Island School of Design, Providence, RI
Graduated: 2022
Artist-in-Residence
Brooklyn Arts Collective, New York, NY — 2022
Tattoo Artist
Professional Tattoo License
California Department of Public Health — Issued 2021
Tattoo Apprenticeship
Sacred Ink Studio, Los Angeles, CA — 2020
Bloodborne Pathogen Certification
American Red Cross — 2019
Storyboard Artist
Bachelor of Arts (BA), Animation
California Institute of the Arts, Valencia, CA
Graduated: 2021
Certificate in Digital Storyboarding
School of Visual Arts, New York, NY — 2020
3D Artist
Bachelor of Science (BS), Computer Animation
Full Sail University, Winter Park, FL
Graduated: 2019
Autodesk Maya Certified Professional
Autodesk — 2021
ZBrush Digital Sculpting Workshop
Gnomon School of VFX — 2020
Teaching Artist
Master of Fine Arts (MFA), Art Education
Pratt Institute, Brooklyn, NY
Graduated: 2018
Teaching Certification (K–12 Visual Arts)
New York State Education Department — Issued 2019
Community Workshop Instructor
Queens Museum, New York, NY — 2020
Lash Artist
Certified Eyelash Extension Specialist
Xtreme Lashes Academy, Houston, TX — 2021
Cosmetology License
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation — 2020
Skills Section For Artist Resume
Your skills section should balance artistic ability with professional credibility. Breaking them into categories makes it easier for curators, studios, or recruiters to scan.
- Hard Skills → These are your craft-specific abilities that can be taught and measured, such as oil painting, tattoo machine operation, storyboarding, or 3D modeling. They prove you have the technical foundation to deliver art at a professional standard.
- Technical Skills → These cover the tools, software, and processes you use in your work — from Adobe Photoshop and Maya to sterilization practices for tattooing. They show you’re not just creative, but also equipped with the technical expertise that the role demands.
- Soft Skills → These are your interpersonal and workplace strengths, such as collaboration, communication, or mentoring. Studios and galleries value artists who can meet deadlines, work in teams, and manage client relationships smoothly.
- Personal Skills → These describe your character traits and artistic mindset, like creativity, patience, originality, or attention to detail. They round out your profile, showing how you approach your craft and what makes your style unique.
Artist Skills by Role
| Role | Hard Skills | Technical Skills | Soft Skills | Personal Skills |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Artist | Oil & Acrylic Painting, Sculpture, Mixed Media | Adobe Photoshop, Portfolio Curation | Creative Collaboration, Time Management | Attention to Detail, Originality |
| Tattoo Artist | Tattoo Machine Operation, Stencil Design, Freehand Drawing | Sterilization & Hygiene Practices, Tattoo Inks | Client Communication, Patience | Precision, Steady Hand, Creativity |
| Storyboard Artist | Storyboarding, Illustration, Visual Storytelling | Toon Boom Storyboard Pro, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop | Team Collaboration, Deadline Management | Creativity, Adaptability |
| 3D Artist | 3D Modeling, Texturing, Rendering, Rigging | Autodesk Maya, Blender, ZBrush, Substance Painter | Problem-Solving, Workflow Management | Innovation, Detail-Oriented |
| Teaching Artist | Curriculum Development, Art Instruction, Workshop Facilitation | Google Classroom, Digital Presentation Tools | Communication, Mentorship, Classroom Management | Empathy, Adaptability |
| Lash Artist | Eyelash Extensions, Lash Lifting, Application Techniques | Lash Tools & Adhesives, Hygiene Protocols | Customer Service, Client Care | Patience, Professionalism, Steady Hand |
Work Experience: Quantifying Your Creative Impact
Your work experience must prove that your artistic talent translates into professional, quantifiable results. Instead of simply listing tasks, use powerful action verbs and include metrics to show the scale and success of your contributions.
For maximum impact, every bullet point should follow an Action Verb + Task + Result structure.
Resume-Style Examples by Role
Fine Artist
- Created 20+ commissioned portraits and large-scale murals for private and public clients.
- Exhibited work in 5 national galleries, attracting 2,000+ visitors collectively.
- Curated personal portfolio featured in two regional art magazines.
Tattoo Artist
- Designed and executed 300+ custom tattoos with a 95% repeat client rate.
- Maintained sterile work environment in compliance with state hygiene standards.
- Specialized in black-and-grey realism, recognized in 2023 Tattoo Expo.
Storyboard Artist
- Produced storyboards for 15+ advertising campaigns, improving client pitch approvals by 30%.
- Collaborated with directors and animators to visualize scripts for animated films.
- Ensured visual clarity and pacing aligned with narrative goals.
3D Artist
- Modeled and textured 100+ game assets using Maya and ZBrush, meeting tight deadlines.
- Contributed to a VR project showcased at SIGGRAPH 2023.
- Improved rendering pipeline efficiency by 15% through optimized workflows.
Teaching Artist
- Conducted 50+ workshops for students of all ages, focusing on creativity and self-expression.
- Designed visual arts curriculum adopted by 3 community programs.
- Mentored 20+ students who later exhibited their work in local galleries.
Lash Artist
- Awarded “Best Lash Artist” in local beauty competition (2022).
- Completed 500+ eyelash extension applications with 98% client satisfaction.
- Trained junior lash technicians on advanced application techniques.
Tips for Writing Work Experience
- Lead with action verbs: Use strong verbs like designed, created, illustrated, curated, instructed, executed.
- Focus on results, not duties: Instead of “painted murals,” write “created 10+ murals displayed in public spaces.”
- Quantify achievements: Add numbers (exhibitions, clients, artworks, students taught) to show impact.
- Tailor by role: Highlight creativity + precision for tattoo artists, narrative clarity for storyboard artists, technical pipeline skills for 3D artists, etc.
- Include client or exhibition names if notable: Adds credibility (“Exhibited at National Gallery of Modern Art”).
- Show growth: Mention progression from apprentice to licensed artist, or junior to lead.
- Keep it 3–5 bullets per role: Enough to show value without overwhelming the reader.
- Use present tense for current roles, past tense for previous roles.
Ready to Land Your Next Job?
Don’t let your resume get lost in the stack. Build a professional, ATS-friendly resume that highlights your leadership, achievements, and industry expertise.
Resume Keywords for Artist Resumes
Resume Keywords are the specific terms that recruiters, galleries, or ATS systems scan for. Use role-specific and industry-relevant words in your work experience and skills section to make your resume more discoverable.
Fine Artist Keywords
- Art exhibitions
- Commissioned portraits
- Gallery showcases
- Mixed media
- Oil painting
- Portfolio curation
- Art installations
Tattoo Artist Keywords
- Tattoo design
- Stencil preparation
- Freehand drawing
- Sterilization standards
- Custom tattoos
- Client consultation
- Shading techniques
Storyboard Artist Keywords
- Storyboarding
- Visual storytelling
- Scene composition
- Sequential art
- Script visualization
- Storyboard Pro
- Character design
3D Artist Keywords
- 3D modeling
- Texturing
- Rendering
- Rigging
- UV mapping
- Maya
- Blender
- ZBrush
- Game assets
- VFX pipeline
Teaching Artist Keywords
- Curriculum design
- Art workshops
- Creative instruction
- Student mentorship
- Classroom management
- Community outreach
- Lesson planning
Lash Artist Keywords
- Eyelash extensions
- Lash lifting
- Lash application
- Lash adhesives
- Client care
- Beauty consultation
- Hygiene protocols
Action Verbs for Artist Resumes
Using strong action verbs makes your work experience more impactful. Instead of writing “responsible for storyboarding,” say “designed storyboards for…”. Here are verbs artists can use:
Creative Action Verbs
- Designed
- Illustrated
- Painted
- Sketched
- Sculpted
- Created
- Crafted
- Conceptualized
- Curated
- Innovated
Technical Action Verbs
- Modeled
- Rendered
- Textured
- Animated
- Programmed
- Engineered
- Drafted
- Optimized
- Developed
- Executed
Teaching & Mentorship Action Verbs
- Instructed
- Mentored
- Facilitated
- Guided
- Trained
- Lectured
- Supervised
- Demonstrated
- Coordinated
- Inspired
Client-Facing & Collaboration Action Verbs
- Collaborated
- Presented
- Advised
- Consulted
- Delivered
- Negotiated
- Partnered
- Engaged
- Supported
- Communicated
Resume Formatting & Templates
An artist resume has to do two things at once: look professional and be easy to scan. Formatting mistakes can make even a strong portfolio look unpolished.
Best Resume Formats for Artists
- Reverse-Chronological → Most common and ATS-friendly. Lists your most recent work first. Perfect for experienced artists.
- Hybrid (Combination) → Mixes skills and work history. Good for artists with freelance, exhibition-based, or project-heavy careers.
- Creative-Friendly (Light Design) → Allows subtle design elements (icons, muted colors, dividers) without compromising readability. Works for portfolios and client-based roles.
Formatting Tips for Scannability and Style
Follow these design rules to ensure your artist resume format is professional and effective:
- Fonts and Readability: Stick to professional, clean fonts. Use a standard serif font (like Garamond or Times New Roman) for body text and a clean sans-serif font (like Helvetica or Montserrat) for headers.
- Use Subtle Design: You can incorporate a hint of color (e.g., a dark professional blue or forest green) for headers or accent lines, but avoid full color blocks, graphics, or complex icons that distract the eye or break ATS parsing.
- White Space is Your Friend: Ensure plenty of white space around sections, especially in the Work Experience and Skills areas. This makes the document feel less crowded and more professional.
- File Format: Always save and send your resume as a PDF. This locks the formatting, ensuring your meticulous design choices look the same on every recruiter’s screen.
- One-Page Rule: While CVs for Fine Artists with extensive exhibitions can run longer, aim for one page for salaried positions (e.g., VFX Artist, Storyboard Artist), or a maximum of two pages for highly experienced professionals.
Artist Cover Letter Sample
Jane K. Davies 505 Oak Street Portland, OR 97204 (555) 789-0123 jane.davies@email.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/janedaviesart Portfolio: ArtStation.com/JaneDavies
September 29, 2025
Mr. Thomas Vane Senior Art Director NovaGame Studios 4000 Sunset Blvd, Suite 101 Los Angeles, CA 90028
Dear Mr. Vane,
I am writing to express my enthusiastic interest in the Senior Concept Artist position at NovaGame Studios, as advertised on GameDevJobs. Given my seven years of professional experience developing visually compelling assets for AAA fantasy titles, I am confident I possess the technical mastery and artistic vision required to contribute immediately to your upcoming title, Aethelgard.
My core expertise lies in high-fidelity character design and environmental concepting using Photoshop, ZBrush, and Blender. In my previous role at Summit Interactive, I led the concept team responsible for designing all key visual elements for Chronos Rising, which generated over $50 million in launch sales. Specifically, I developed a new pipeline for material rendering that reduced the asset creation timeline by 15%.
I am particularly excited by NovaGame’s distinctive world-building, and I believe my background in implementing dark fantasy aesthetics aligns perfectly with the visual direction of Aethelgard.
My full resume is attached for your review, and my portfolio is available via the link above. I welcome the opportunity to discuss how my concept art can help define and accelerate your team’s visual development goals.
Sincerely,
Jane K. Davies
Key Tips for the Artist Cover Letter
- Prioritize the Portfolio Link: Place your professional portfolio URL (e.g., ArtStation, personal site) right at the top, usually below your email address, to ensure instant access.
- Show, Don’t Just Tell: Use specific, achievement-focused language. Instead of saying you were “responsible for concept art,” say you “developed 40+ key character concepts, reducing pre-production time by 15%.”
- Mirror the Job Description: Include the exact technical software and medium keywords listed in the job posting (e.g., ZBrush, Unreal Engine, oil painting) in your first two paragraphs.
- Name the Project: If you are excited about a studio’s current project (like Aethelgard in the example), name it. This proves you did your research and are genuinely interested.
- Keep it to One Page: The cover letter should be brief. Its sole purpose is to get the recruiter to click your portfolio and resume—don’t tell the full story here.
- Use a Professional Tone: Maintain a professional and respectful tone throughout. While your art might be edgy, your communication must be polished.
Conclusion
An artist resume is not a replacement for your portfolio — it’s the professional counterpart that gives your work credibility. While your portfolio showcases what you create, your resume explains who you are as a professional: the skills you’ve mastered, the exhibitions you’ve been part of, the clients you’ve worked with, and the training that shaped your journey.
The key is balance. A resume that is too plain won’t capture your creative identity, while one that is too flashy may look unprofessional. The best artist resumes sit in the middle — structured, clear, and tailored to the opportunity, yet infused with enough artistic voice to reflect your style.
When you combine a strong resume with a compelling portfolio, you give curators, clients, and studios both the proof of your ability and the evidence of your professionalism. That’s the complete picture they’re looking for.
Additional Resources
- UX Designer Resume
- Tattoo Artist Resume
- Resume summary Examples for Multiple Jobs
- Musician Resume
- Actor Resume
FAQs(People Also Asked)
Focus heavily on your Education & Training and your Skills Section. If you have no traditional work experience, use your Resume Objective to clearly state your career goal. List projects, school showcases, internships, and relevant volunteer work under a section titled “Related Experience” or “Art Projects” instead of “Work Experience.” For copy-ready motivation, review the entry-level examples in our artist sample resume section.
Do not paste the portfolio content into your resume, but you must include a prominent link to your online portfolio (e.g., ArtStation, personal website, or Instagram) in your header/contact section. The resume proves your professionalism, but the portfolio proves your skill. Ensure your artist resume format is professional while your portfolio is the visual showcase.
Your resume should categorize three types of skills: Hard Skills (specific software like Photoshop, Maya, ZBrush), Soft Skills (collaboration, time management), and Unique Skills (exhibition history, client management). Prioritize skills that are explicitly mentioned in the job description to make your application ATS-friendly.
The Hybrid (Combination) Format is often the best choice for artists, as it immediately highlights your Skills and Summary before detailing your chronological experience. This format is easily scannable by recruiters and ATS. Always save and send your art resume sample as a high-quality PDF to maintain your formatting integrity.
Create a separate section titled “Selected Exhibitions,” “Commissions,” or “Freelance Projects.” Use a reverse-chronological list format, similar to work experience. For each entry, include the title of the work/project, the date, and the venue or client name. For example: Solo Exhibition: “Future Canvas,” [Gallery Name], London, 2024.
