- Salary statistics
- Sculptor, artist
Sculptor, artist
41 395 - 39 779 kr / month
Kultur, media, design
Salary progression Sculptor, artist
What does a sculptor, artist do? – Tasks and work environment
A sculptor, artist works on creating three-dimensional artworks by shaping materials such as stone, wood, metal, or clay. Tasks include sketching, modeling, and the practical execution of artworks using various tools and techniques. Sculptors can work on commissions, in their own studios, or in collaboration with other artists and clients, for example for public art installations or exhibitions. The work environment varies depending on the material and project, and can involve outdoor work or specialized workshops where safety protocols and ergonomics are important factors.
Salary development over time
The salary for a sculptor, artist has shown a steady and positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,200 kronor per month, which increased to 38 400 kronor in 2023, representing an increase of approximately 6%. During 2024, the average salary has continued to rise and is now at 39 779 kronor, indicating an increase of over 3.6% compared to the previous year. The consistent salary growth can partly be explained by increased demand for artistic services in public art and cultural projects, as well as a higher societal appreciation for artistic work. At the same time, factors such as project-based employment and competition from other artistic professions influence opportunities for salary development over time.
Salary overview for sculptors, artists – complete summary
- Average salary: 39 779 kr/month
- Lowest/Highest salary: Data not available
- Hourly wage: 239 kr
- Gender pay gap: Salary data for men and women is not specifically available
- Regional differences: Data not available
Education and qualifications
To work as a sculptor, artist, a university-level artistic education is usually required, often with a focus on sculpture or fine arts. The educational path can vary and may be combined with courses, internships, and personal artistic development to enhance technical skills and personal expression. Practical experience and a strong portfolio are highly valuable for establishing oneself in the profession.
- Art university or artistic higher education: 3–5 years
- Courses in sculpture and modeling: At adult education centers or folk high schools
- Internship or trainee position: Often with an established artist or in a workshop environment
- Portfolio requirements: A strong portfolio of own works is often necessary
- Self-study and further education: Common for developing techniques and expression
Many sculptors combine their artistry with teaching, workshops, or collaborations in performing arts and architecture. This breadth opens doors to creative encounters and new forms of expression that often enrich both professional life and personal creation.
Common benefits and compensations
Typical benefits for sculptors, artists can include access to studio or workshop space, opportunities for scholarships, material stipends, and travel grants for exhibitions and projects. In some cases, insurance, mentoring, and networking support through memberships in artist organizations are also offered.
Competition and challenges
The profession of sculptor, artist is characterized by high competition and difficulties in establishing oneself, especially for recent graduates. Many work as sole proprietors or on a project basis, which entails uncertain income and the need to constantly seek new commissions. Funding and access to exhibition opportunities are recurring challenges. Additionally, continuous further education and innovation are necessary to stay relevant in the market. Despite these challenges, the profession attracts many due to the opportunity to work creatively and independently, but it requires strong drive and entrepreneurial skills.
Tips for aspiring sculptors, artists
To succeed as a sculptor, artist, it’s important to be persistent and willing to develop your personal expression. Creativity is an obvious trait, but also the ability to work independently and organize projects is crucial for advancing your artistic career. Building a strong network and being open to collaborations can open doors to new opportunities, as can applying for scholarships and exhibiting your work publicly. Flexibility helps when assignments and projects vary over time, and a professional portfolio is often key to standing out in the art scene. Finally, patience and belief in your art are essential, even when the path to establishment is long and sometimes uncertain.
Key facts about sculptors, artists
- Education level: Artistic higher education (3–5 years)
- Work environment: Studio, workshop, or public spaces
- Work form: Self-employed or project-based
- Demand: 620 available jobs within the visual arts profession
- Special skills: Sculpture techniques, material handling, creative expression
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession as a sculptor, artist, there may be opportunities to establish oneself as an independent artist with own exhibitions, public commissions, or collaborations with architects and designers. Some choose to specialize in specific materials or techniques, while others combine their creation with teaching or consulting assignments. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, no specific forecast is made for the profession due to limited data, but within the visual arts profession, there are 620 available jobs, indicating some demand. Future prospects are influenced by project funding, cultural policy initiatives, and the ability to seek support or scholarships.
Frequently asked questions about sculptors, artists
- What does a sculptor, artist earn?
- The average salary is 39 779 kronor per month according to the latest figures. - How do you become a sculptor, artist?
- Most commonly, by completing an artistic university education with a focus on sculpture or fine arts. - What are the job duties of a sculptor?
- Creating three-dimensional artworks, modeling, material processing, and exhibition work. - What is the job market like for sculptors?
- There are 620 available jobs within the profession, but competition is high and the outlook is uncertain. - What education is required to work as a sculptor, artist?
- An artistic higher education of at least three years is common, often supplemented with courses and internships. - What benefits are common for sculptors?
- Studio space, scholarships, material stipends, and networking support may be available.
- Are there gender pay gaps?
- There is no specific salary data for men and women within the profession.
Salary distributed by age and sector
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Sculptor, artist has the SSYK code 2651, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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