ArtWorks

The Center for Arts-Inspired Learning’s most extended running program, supports youth on the precipice of adulthood, seeking opportunities for real-world experience and self-discovery through their interest in the arts.

What is ArtWorks?

ArtWorks is an Arts Education and Workforce Development program for high school students in 10th, 11th, & 12th grade. Students are enrolled as paid apprentices and are mentored by a Master Teaching Artist in an art form while going through Workforce Development and developing universal skills for post-high school endeavors.

ArtWorks is offered 3 sessions each school year (Fall, Spring, and Summer). This is an excellent opportunity for students to learn a new art form or strengthen their skills in an art form.

All apprentices will receive a stipend for participating in the program. Those who participate in our Youth Leadership Council will receive an additional stipend.

This program offers art forms that vary from session to session. Some examples of art forms offered in previous sessions include Visual Arts, Culinary Art, Film Production, Dance, Podcasting, Photography, Spoken Word Poetry, Fashion Design, and much more!

ArtWorks Youth Leadership Council

We are excited to introduce the ArtWorks Youth Leadership Council as a new extension of the program. The Youth Council will meet on Wednesdays in addition to the normal schedule from 4:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Members are guaranteed placement in ArtWorks for all 3 ArtWorks sessions this year (Fall, Spring, and Summer).

Council members will act as co-op leads, work on a community service project, assist in professional development activities, and be ambassadors for the program. Youth Council members will also receive additional stipend funds each session for their participation.

Those interested in being considered for the ArtWorks Youth Leadership Council must interview for this opportunity. Candidates are required to have participated in at least 1 previous session of ArtWorks.

ArtWorks Program Requirements

  • Applicant must be in 10th, 11th or 12th grade.

  • All applicants must complete an application and interview to be considered.

  • No previous art experience is required to participate but applicants should be interested in the arts and willing to learn new skills in a multicultural setting.

  • Participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from the program.

  • young woman cutting cardboard to build a peice of art

    Afterschool Artworks

    Afterschool ArtWorks is a semester-long apprenticeship requiring students to meet after school on Tuesdays & Thursdays from 4:30pm - 7:30pm (with some later evenings and Saturdays required).

  • Young woman drawing in a sketch pad

    Summer Artworks

    Summer ArtWorks is a four-week apprenticeship requiring students to meet Monday - Friday, 9:30am - 3:30pm.

ARTWORKS LIVE!


ArtWorks Live! is the culminating event of our ArtWorks program, showcasing the incredible creations of our 40 teen apprentices. This interactive experience not only highlights their artistic talents but also encourages an entrepreneurial mindset through a student market featuring a diverse range of student artwork and creations.

This summer, under new leadership and in alignment with CAL’s Strategic Plan, we’ve strengthened connections between our apprentices and local and regional organizations that promote arts education and workforce development. As you explore the ArtWorks marketplace, be sure to engage with these organizations stationed throughout the space. This networking opportunity offers our paid apprentices, their families, and community members a chance to interact with industry professionals, explore career paths, and access valuable resources to enhance professional experiences and career readiness.

Check out what past apprentices did at previous ArtWorks Live! showcases.

Program supported by

Become a Master Teaching Artist

Interested in helping 10th-12th grade youth learn transferable skills using the arts as a catalyst?

Consider joining our 2024-2025 Master Teaching Artist roster for our ArtWorks program!

Meet the ArtWorks Team

  • Jimmie Woody

    Director of Community Programs

  • Darelle Hill

    Community Programs Manager