Industry Description
This industry comprises independent (i.e., freelance) individuals primarily engaged in performing in artistic productions, in creating artistic and cultural works or productions, or in providing technical expertise necessary for these productions. This industry also includes athletes and other celebrities exclusively engaged in endorsing products and making speeches or public appearances for which they receive a fee.
Illustrative Examples:
Independent actors or actresses
Independent producers
Independent art restorers
Independent recording technicians
Independent artists (except musical, commercial, or medical)
Independent speakers
Independent cartoonists
Independent theatrical costume designers
Independent dancers
Independent theatrical lighting technicians
Independent journalists
Independent technical writers
Cross-References.
Business Examples
Common types of business activities within NAICS 711510 - Independent Artists, Writers, and Performers are:
- Writers, independent (freelance)
- Sculptors, independent
- Radio commentators, independent
- Celebrity spokespersons, independent
- Authors, independent
- Lecturers, independent
- Directors, independent music
- Sports announcers, independent
- Wildlife artists, independent
- Comedians, independent
- Political cartoonists, independent
- Speakers, independent
- Song writers, independent
- Conductors, independent
- Technical writers, independent
- Folk dancers, independent
- Directors, independent motion picture
- Motion picture directors, independent
- Music directors, independent
- Performers (i.e., entertainers), independent
- Artists (i.e., painters), independent
- Ghost writers, independent
- Record producers, independent
- Models, independent
- Set designers, independent theatrical
- Storytellers, independent
- Choreographers, independent
- Screenplay writers, independent
- Recording technicians, independent
- Ballet dancers, independent
- Actors, independent
- Journalists, independent (freelance)
- Jazz dancers, independent
- Playwrights, independent
- Television producers, independent
- Motivational speakers, independent
- Writers of advertising copy, independent
- Interpretive dancers, independent
- Poets, independent
- Cinematographers, independent
- Reporters, independent (freelance)
- Conservators (i.e., art, artifact restorers), independent
- Producers, independent
- Disc jockeys, independent
- Stage set (e.g., concert, motion picture, television) erecting and dismantling, independent
- Composers, independent
- Taxidermists, independent
- Motion picture producers, independent
- Photographers, independent artistic
- Script writers, independent
- Standup comedians, independent
- Magicians, independent
- Entertainers, independent
- Lighting technicians, theatrical, independent
- Music arrangers, independent
- Orchestra conductors, independent
- Dancers, independent
- News correspondents, independent (freelance)
- Special effect technicians, independent
- Newspaper columnists, independent (freelance)
- Scenery designers, independent theatrical
- Animated cartoon artists, independent
- Ethnic dancers, independent
- Independent technical writers
- Costume designers, independent theatrical
- Painting restorers, independent
- Performing artists, independent
- Directors (i.e., film, motion picture, music, theatrical), independent
- Cartoonists, independent
- Announcers, independent radio and television
- Actresses, independent
- Film actors, independent
- Film producers, independent
- Photojournalists, independent (freelance)
- Sketch artists, independent
- Artists (except commercial, musical), independent
- Art restorers, independent
- Cameramen, independent (freelance)
- Painters (i.e., artists), independent
IBISWorld Industry Research Report
Performers & Creative Artists in the US (71151)
Revenue 2025
$72bn
Growth 2025
1.09%
Key Trends
Federal funding for creative arts is expected to increase, supporting operators' endeavors
The vast majority of enterprises are sole proprietors or nonemployers that operate without a staff
Digital media will make it easier for artists to market and disseminate their experiences and products to a wider audience
Products and Services
Similar Industries
For some business types, there may be a similar industry to 711510 - Independent Artists, Writers, and Performers that is a better classification match. Establishments primarily engaged in:
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NAICS Cross Reference
Artisans and craftspersons are classified in Sector 31-33, Manufacturing.
IBISWorld industry research report
Textile and Fabric Finishing and Fabric Coating Mills in the US
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NAICS Cross Reference
Independent commercial artists and graphic designers are classified in Industry 541430, Graphic Design Services; and
IBISWorld industry research report
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NAICS Cross Reference
Freelance musicians and vocalists are classified in Industry 711130, Musical Groups and Artists;
IBISWorld industry research report
NAICS Hierarchy 711510 - Independent Artists, Writers, and Performers
NAICS Code 711510 - Independent Artists, Writers, and Performers sits in the 2-digit Independent Artists, Writers, and Performers sector. NAICS codes can be 2- to 6-digits and the further along the hierarchy, the more detailed and specific the category will be. Learn more about the structure of NAICS codes
2 Digits: 71
Sector Title: Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation
3 Digits 4 Digits 5 Digits 6 Digits
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7111 Performing Arts Companies
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71111 Theater Companies and Dinner Theaters
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71112 Dance Companies
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71113 Musical Groups and Artists
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71119 Other Performing Arts Companies
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7112 Spectator Sports
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71121 Spectator Sports
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7113 Promoters of Performing Arts, Sports, and Similar Events
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71131 Promoters of Performing Arts, Sports, and Similar Events with Facilities
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71132 Promoters of Performing Arts, Sports, and Similar Events without Facilities
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7114 Agents and Managers for Artists, Athletes, Entertainers, and Other Public Figures
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71141 Agents and Managers for Artists, Athletes, Entertainers, and Other Public Figures
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7115 Independent Artists, Writers, and Performers
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71151 Independent Artists, Writers, and Performers
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7121 Museums, Historical Sites, and Similar Institutions
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71211 Museums
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71212 Historical Sites
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71213 Zoos and Botanical Gardens
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71219 Nature Parks and Other Similar Institutions
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7131 Amusement Parks and Arcades
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71311 Amusement and Theme Parks
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71312 Amusement Arcades
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7132 Gambling Industries
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71321 Casinos (except Casino Hotels
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71329 Other Gambling Industries
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7139 Other Amusement and Recreation Industries
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71391 Golf Courses and Country Clubs
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71392 Skiing Facilities
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71393 Marinas
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71394 Fitness and Recreational Sports Centers
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71395 Bowling Centers
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71399 All Other Amusement and Recreation Industries
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Similar Industries Niche and Emerging
IBISWorld provides research on hundreds of niche and emerging industries, including the following for 711510 - Independent Artists, Writers, and Performers.
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