CINCINNATI— ArtWorks, a leader in workforce development and public art in Cincinnati, is on a mission to hire more than 100 teens and young adults, ages 14–21, to create new murals and other projects across Queen City communities this summer. This is the second year that ArtWorks has partnered with Hamilton County and Talbert House, who are providing financial and hiring support, as well as additional professional development opportunities, for this program.
Apprentices work under the mentorship of Teaching Artists to create public art and community impact projects. Projects are most often large-scale, outdoor murals, but in the past have also included photography, sewing, dance, and film production. Applicants should be eager to create art, make a difference in the city, work in diverse teams, and build new skills.
Apprentice wages are $13 an hour and artists will work either 20 or 30 hours per week (depending on age) for eight weeks, June 2 – July 25. Scheduled work hours are subject to change, but Apprentices typically work between 8am – 3pm, Monday through Friday. Find out more at ArtWorksCincinnati.org/Apprenticeships.
Beyond making art, Apprentices elevate their skills in collaboration, communication, creativity, critical thinking, goal orientation, and growth orientation. Through ArtWorks’ program, Apprentices can develop lifelong friendships and bonds with their teammates, gain references for post-high school education and future employment, and connect with their communities through a collaborative creative process.
Additional ArtWorks opportunities include an apprenticeship with the Well’s True Body Project. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the first True Body Project partnership between ArtWorks and The Well. ArtWorks also provides year-long positions in its Mural Studio and Camera Studio.
To apply to work as a Summer Apprentice, you must attend the in-person Application + Interview Day on Saturday, March 1, at ArtWorks’ HQ, 2429 Gilbert Avenue in Walnut Hills. Please bring your art portfolio and arrive anytime between 10 am–2pm to begin the application and interview process.
Apprentice Corinne Lerma (shown in image, with brush, next to Apprentice Isaac Larsen) worked with ArtWorks on mural projects for multiple summers. She said she gained valuable experience while also getting paid. “I think when people hear about ArtWorks they just think, ‘Oh, you just paint all day,’” she said. “And yes, we do that, but there’s training and so much more! The best part of being involved with ArtWorks was being surrounded by other artists, learning about history, and discovering the beauty of Cincinnati.”
“Before ArtWorks, I had no idea being a working artist was even a possibility. I would absolutely encourage young people to get involved with ArtWorks. It will open so many doors both outside, to the world, and inside, to themselves,” said Lerma.
Throughout its history, ArtWorks has employed nearly 8,000 artists and created thousands of works of community and public art, including nearly 400 permanent public murals, as well as sculptures, light-based installations, and more.
Another former Apprentice is Colleen Houston, the current CEO and artistic director for ArtWorks. “Working as an Apprentice within ArtWorks’ program is an extraordinary opportunity for young creatives to unlock their true potential and build confidence. It’s a life-changing experience to be part of a collaborative team effort and make a positive difference in the community you live in. Above and beyond a paycheck, this is such a rewarding job experience that fosters growth, creativity, and invaluable mentorship, paving the way for a promising future in the world of art or any desired career path,” Houston said.
Continued support for ArtWorks’ youth employment is provided through the City of Cincinnati. Ongoing support for ArtWorks is made possible by Ohio Arts Council, ArtsWave, and numerous individuals through donations to its Rising Artists Program. ArtWorks is an Equal Opportunity Employer, strongly committed to building and retaining a diverse staff that harnesses each voice to collectively advance ArtWorks’ mission.
