Melissa Currence,
ArtWorks Communications
ArtWorks is accepting applications for youth apprentice positions for 2020 now through Sunday, February 23.
ArtWorks hires youth apprentices, 14-21 years old, as paid seasonal employees to work side-by-side with professional artists, educators and peers to create works of art, including large-scale murals, that positively impact community. The hourly wage starts at $10.69 per hour—the living wage rate set by the City of Cincinnati.
ArtWorks is looking to hire approximately 100 youth apprentices for the summer, starting in June.
“Our goal at ArtWorks is to provide creative young people with experiences that cultivate 21st century career readiness skills,” said Amy Scarpello, director of workforce development. “In our team environment, where apprentices are led by professional artists, everyone ultimately learns from each other while developing art that truly impacts Cincinnati.”
ArtWorks received a 98 percent satisfaction rate among its youth apprentices last year.
“Being an ArtWorks apprentice channeled my love for the artistic process into a piece I am proud to claim I helped create,” said Marin Emanuel, 18, who was hired as an apprentice last year to work on the mural by Chicago-based artist Molly Costello, Connected Through the Generations. “I gained new skills, a diverse network of fellow artists and increased self-confidence. The many memories made throughout my apprentice experience will stay with me forever.“
All youth apprentices hired attend a paid week-long orientation in June where communication, creative thinking, problem solving and financial skills are taught by nationally renowned speakers.
“The jobs available are within the visual arts field, but the skills acquired through this work are applicable to any industry,” Scarpello said. “Working at ArtWorks connects you with a network of creatives in the region working at all levels in a variety of fields.”
ArtWorks is hosting an Apprentice Application Info Session on Thursday, January 16, at 6 p.m. at its office at 20 E. Central Parkway. Applicants, parents and teachers are welcome to attend.
ArtWorks is also hiring teaching artists, ages 22 and older, to lead apprentice teams in 2020.
Visit artworkscincinnati.org for more information.