Fine artists usually work independently, choosing the subject matter and medium they deem fit. Usually they specialize in one or two forms of art. Painters generally work with two-dimensional art forms. Using techniques of shading, perception, and color-mixing, painters produce lifelike and abstract works that may evoke or depict different moods and emotions depending on the artist's goals at the time the painting was done. Some sculptors combine various materials such as concrete, metal, wood, plastic, and paper.
Printmakers create printed images from designs cut into wood, stone, or metal.
The designs may be engraved, as in the case of woodblocking, or etched in, as in producing etchings. Fine artists may sell their works to stores, art galleries, and museums, or sell directly to collectors. Only the most successful are able to support themselves solely through sale of their works, however. Most fine artists hold other jobs as well. Graphic artists, whether freelancers or employed by a firm, use a variety of print and film media to create and execute art that meets a client's needs.