24.10.14

Learn What It Takes To Be A Display Artist

By Young Lindsay


Department stores, boutiques, and other retailers often rely on eye-catching displays to attract the attention of customers. In order to effectively create and put together these interesting arrangements of merchandise, it takes skill and knowledge. The professional who is responsible for this task is known as a display artist or a visual merchandiser.

A gifted visual merchandiser not only helps sell the items for sale in a store, but also the store itself. An aesthetically appealing retail environment with displays which attract passers-by and a neat, organized layout inside is always appreciated by those who walk through its doors. This area of marketing is well-suited for creative individuals who are up to the continuously changing demand for new ideas each season or as new store event such as sales come up.

The first step to beginning a career in visual merchandising is to earn one's high school diploma or GED, which paves the way for applying to community colleges and design schools which offer instruction in this field. While not that common, some retailers may be willing to train certain candidates who display aptitude in an apprenticeship, but most prefer designers with formal education. Post-secondary training also increases one's chances for promotion later on.

There are basically two educational routes to visual merchandising training: a two-year Associate Degree or a four-year Bachelor's Degree. Both programs familiarize students with the essential elements of design and teach them how to implement these creative tools into actual designs. The four-year program simpler gives them a broader knowledge base and more detailed skill-set.

One component of most visual merchandising courses is market and trend analysis. This is important, as it plays a vital role in determining how the merchandiser should arrange the store and its goods to garner the attention of shoppers in a way that speaks to their current needs and interests. Since this is a very "hands-on" type of work, most schools offer co-op or apprenticeship options as part of the program so students can learn by doing.

The prospects for the growth of this field is promising. With the number of new retailers appearing on the scene increasing consistently, this in turn raises the demand for visual merchandisers. All stores need to someone who can ensure that their products and layout are presented in a way that is appealing to potential customers.

Many people employed as visual merchandisers receive an above-average salary. As with many other professions, those starting out will typically earn less, since pay is often commensurate with years of experience and educational background, so it's worthwhile investing in additional training, and to seek out every possible work opportunity.

The typical visual merchandiser puts in a 35 to 40 hour work week, with deadlines sometimes demanding extra hours. People employed by a retailer for several years may eventually be promoted to supervisor or manager positions within their department. Others will opt to do freelance work for a variety of clients and they may even start their own business.




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