Looking for art job
Hello, I am new to this site, and hope to be new to the job force as soon as possible! I am looking for a job that :
looks for volunteer experience but doesn't require previous paying job experience
Has to do with art, and/or kids. I have lots of experience working with children, and my minor in college was Studio Art, and am currently a "free-lance artist."
Other interests: photography, church, reading, animals, nutrition, and giving to those in need.
Anyone know of anything I might be interested in/hiring positions? Thank you!
Hi Samantha, I would check with your local YMCA if there is one close by. Especially as the summer approaches, they may have different camps going on and you might be able to do something like that. Also, maybe look into doing art classes for kids. Check with studios in the area and see if that is something they offer!
Good luck!
Hi Samantha,
I think you're off to a great start here by telling us Jobcasers your interests and experience. It's a lot easier to discuss your options knowing them. I have a few thoughts for you based on my own experience.
Create an online portfolio if you don't have one. There are many free websites to help you build it. Your portfolio means a lot in the arts business, and making it easily accessible is just as important. Be very selective about what you choose to highlight. Ask friends and coworkers to help you decide which ten pieces are your best and start with those. AND DON'T FORGET – make sure you include a link to your portfolio in your Jobcase profile!
Alyssa made some nice suggestions for getting "kids and art" experience. I think working at camps for that sort of thing is a great way to start. There are also plenty of community-based arts centers that can use help sometimes.
Look for pro-bono opportunities to provide art work. If you can contribute your talents to organizations that need help, they can often introduce you to people who are looking to hire and you'll be building your portfolio!
If you are part of a church community (as you suggest in your interests), tap into the people there. I am positive that there are members of your church community that work in relevant businesses or could put you in touch with people that do.
Give yourself projects to build your portfolio.
See if there are any local freelance organizations near you and reach out to them.
If you are freelancing and considering working in commercial art or advertising, reach out directly to companies and agencies. Talk to them about how you would love to "learn the ropes." Would they be willing to let you start at ground level in order to learn from them? You won't make a lot of money this way, but it could give you the experience you need to be more successful.
I hope these ideas help. Best of luck and let us know how it's going! Best, Matthew