Art/Creative Job Opportunities (San Diego: job market, vs., move to)

[marycoyle13]

My girlfriend and I are planning to move to San Diego, or there a bouts, very soon. Was curious what the job market is like in the art industry? I have an MFA and can do anything from teaching to working in a museum/gallery? Any info would be greatly appreciated!

[CBerger]

Not too much from what I've seen I graduated with a degree in studio art and illustration as well as experience working in galleries as a preparator and curator. My main career path would be to work in a museum/gallery like you.

The jobs I have found have been mostly artists assistants, kids art programs and things like that. All of these are fine but they are few and far between as well as competitive.

The main issue I've found with this job market is it's less about qualification and more about connections and who you know and networking etc. Unfortunately I have to work a job to pay my bills and that limits opportunities to go out and enjoy the art scene in museums/galleries/events where these connections and networks can be made and pursued.

[earlyretirement]

Originally Posted by CBerger

The main issue I've found with this job market is it's less about qualification and more about connections and who you know and networking etc.

I don't know too much about the art world at all. I have met an art gallery owner and had interesting conversations with her. I do think that this point above by CBerger is spot on target. Not only for the art world but the entire job market in general here.

It's the same in many cities but I've found that here in San Diego it seems more so. Networking and connections seems like it's a bigger deal here vs. other major cities. Although San Diego has a larger population it has a really small town feel to it.

You'd be surprised how "it's a small world" here in San Diego it is. I can't tell you how many times I've just met someone here and they know people that I know. Sometimes it's shocking how small of a world it is here. Heck, just today I met a lady with a small child and it turns out she is friends with one of my friends. I can't tell you how many times that's happened here. Especially here in North County.

It's probably a good idea to volunteer and find groups associated in your field if you're serious about finding a job here. The contacts you make networking will probably be worth gold when it comes to finding a job here. Absolutely I think "qualifications and education" will come into play in finding a good job but equally important here will be having a deep networking base that will vouch for you.