The traditional picture painted of an artist is one of a solitary existence, tucked away chain-smoking in a loft studio while waiting for that elusive first sell of a carefully-created masterpiece.
While stereotypes such as these seem to be favoured by film and TV directors, they don't seem to apply to the numerous fine art graduates who use are using their degrees and creative credentials to enter a range of professions.
A recent addition to the 'What to do with a degree in...' Guardian Money series, which focused on fine art, found these career directions included teaching, advertising and management.
However, as the piece pointed out, it is often said that one must suffer for one's art — and a spell of pennilessness after graduation is one stereotype ringing true for those who may be trying to establish themselves as an artist.
Recent data shows 10.7% of 2008 fine art graduates were unemployed after leaving university — and a high proportion listed catering or retail work as their primary occupation.
So whether you are struggling to make your impact in the art world, or you are looking to take your degree into a career either based in this area or elsewhere — we have assembled an expert panel to offer advice on what you can do with your degree in art.
The discussion is now open for your questions and comments. Click here to post.
Zoe Papiernik is head of audience development for Wolverhampton Arts & Museums. Zoe is a chartered member of The Chartered Institute of Marketing, and supports her career development with volunteering for the Art Fund.
Gillian Easson is development manager — Innovation Programmes Scotland for the independent body National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts (NESTA). As part of this role, Gillian, a design graduate, was responsible for NESTA's Creative Enterprise Toolkit, which teaches enterprise skills to creative individuals who are thinking about setting up a business.
Richard Eaton is award leader for the foundation degree in digital media production at Burton College. Richard has been teaching since 2001 following a career as a photographer, including working as an assistant to Steve Pyke MBE.
Dr Garrett Monaghan is an associate senior lecturer within the School of Creative Arts, Film and Media at the University of Portsmouth. As well as teaching, Dr Monaghan is a consultant and practitioner for various bodies including the Arts Council.
Laura Hooke is a career consultant with more than 20 years of experience. She works for City University London but combines this with freelance career consultancy.
Johanna Basford is a printed textiles graduate who has started her own business, offering creative design and illustration for a range of customers. Her designs have been used on a range of products, including beer bottles, wedding stationary, catwalk fashion and wallpaper.
Sarah Dick is a PR account executive for Edelman public relations. As part of this role, Sarah, a fine art & art history graduate, manages the company's Art Programme — a way for employees to encounter contemporary art in the workplace through a series of loans, hires and purchases and site-specific installations.
