"I want to be an game artist (ie. modeling, animation, texture mapping) but I am concerned about the annual income. I have no idea, earthly-or-otherwise, of what price artists fetch. I love art. I adore gaming. Could you please give me an estimated income range? I don't mind starving for my art, but I'm really hoping that it won't be neccessary."

Submitted by: David Johnson

Answered by: Jimmy Kowalski (art director, Sierra On-Line)

"Dear future Monet -

"The game artists' industry is actually a pretty good way to make a living. I have been making games for 6 years now and have been out of work for about 8 hours. Annual incomes vary according to company. But, overall, an artist's income is more than a livable wage. Starting artists start anywhere from 22 to 30 k's a year from what I know. Depending on the artist's level of talent, it can even be higher. Art directors make about twice that as a junior art director... and can quickly pull in a lot more if they are talented.

"So don't worry... you can make it. If you are serious about it, do a few informational interviews and find out what a company is looking for. It helps to know what you need to show them in order to get your foot in the door.

"Good Luck!"
- Jimmy Kowalski, non-starving art director

Answered by: Lisa Varner (HR wizard, Sierra On-Line)

"Starving?? Not in this industry! A junior level computer graphic artist's salary ranges from 20-31K per year. Senior level artists generally range from 30-44K. So don't get settled on the ramen soup and hot dog idea just yet."

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