This monograph examines the size and composition of the population of U.S. artists from 1950 to 1985 using data from four U.S. decennnial censuses (1950-1980) and the Current Population Survey (CPS). Chapter 1 presents an overview and summary of the report. Population growth rates for the United States and persons in specific arts-related occupations are examined and compared in chapter 2. Rates of increase varied substantially across occupations and time periods and between the sexes. Chapter 3 reports on changes over time in the residence patterns of professional workers and artists with emphasis placed on urban populations that reside in the Northeast, Midwest, South, and West. Chapter 4 describes trends in artists' age profiles and educational levels compared with professional workers and with the total work force, while chapter 5 focuses on employment trends and earnings of artists in relation to professional workers and to the total work force. Each chapter treats data for men and women separately. Appendices include: (1) the occupational classification of artists in the U.S. Census; (2) the number of artists, 1950-1985; (3) a description of the impact of sampling error on data reliability; and (4) tables that report specific arts occupation characteristics. Numerous figures and tables are included. (JHP)