Some freelance artists are widely recognized for their skill in specialties such as magazine or children's book illustration. These artists may earn high incomes and can pick and choose the type of work they do. Fine artists and illustrators advance professionally as their work circulates and as they establish a reputation for a particular style. Many of the most successful artists and illustrators continually develop new ideas, and their work often evolves over time. Graphic designers may advance to assistant art director, art director, design director, and in some companies, creative director of an art or design department.
Some artists prosper enough to succeed as freelance designers or to specialize in a particular area.
Some graphic designers design web pages for their company's Internet site. Others open their own businesses. Because the visual arts attract many talented people with creative ability, the number of aspiring visual artists continues to grow. Consequently, competition for both salaried jobs and freelance work in some, but not all, areas of visual arts is expected to be keen. Fine artists mostly work on a freelance, or commission, basis and may find it difficult to earn a living solely by selling their artwork.