Commercial artists are professionals hired to create artworks that are intended for a particular purpose or context outside of an art gallery. While this has historically been limited to advertising and graphic design, the distinction between fine art and commercial art began to blur around the mid 20th century.

As of the 21st century, the scope of 'commercial artwork' has broadened as more forms of art, such as tattoo artwork, are recognised as independent artforms.

Though public art can be considered a form of commercial artwork, it has been given its own section below. Commercial artists are often sole traders, and as such must also have the administration skills to run their own business.

Artists conceive and create visual representations to investigate, respond to or communicate an impression or idea. An artist may be concerned with the production of two-dimensional or three-dimensional forms, employing a number of methods such as painting, drawing, printmaking, photography, sculpture and ceramics to realise their ideas. They may also use film, digital technology and performance techniques and forms.

- From the Good Universities Guide

Exhibiting artists develop and create work that is exhibited in dedicated art institutions and galleries, either in solo or group exhibitions.

"Community arts and cultural development is a community-based arts practice and can engage any art form. There are many variations of how community arts and cultural development works are made, developed and shared, and as such, there is no one model. What is at the core of this practice, however, is the collaboration between professional artists and communities to create art."

• Australia Council for the Arts, What is community arts and cultural development practice?

As a community artist, it's advisable to have a current Working with Children Check and may be useful to have a police clearance and certificate to provide first aid.

Public artists create art that sits within public spaces, ranging in size from tiny pieces to gigantic, interactive installations. Public artwork turns everyday spaces into surprising experiences for passers-by, and 'cultural tourism' has picked up as visitors travel specifically to experience these artistic interventions.

Becoming a public artist requires a broad set of skills and abilities, as you will be managing every step of the process from writing Expressions of Interest (EOIs), designing, budgeting, and negotiating contracts, to installing and evaluating. You must have a good understanding of Occupational Health & Safety (OHS), legal requirements such as insurance, project management, and working to deadlines.

Becoming a public artist is not for the faint-hearted, but it can nonetheless be one of the most rewarding careers available to an artist who can dedicate to a vision.