16-Year-Olds and Art Internships: A Global Guide

The desire to explore and immerse oneself in the world of the arts at such a young age is commendable. However, finding the right internships can be challenging and highly variable depending on your location and the opportunities available in your region. Here, we provide a global guide to help 16-year-olds navigate the specifics of landing valuable internships in the arts.

Understanding Local Variations

Where you are located significantly impacts the internship opportunities available to you. The experiences and connections an 16-year-old in Pittsburgh might have will be vastly different from those in Edinburgh, Scotland, or elsewhere in the world. Each region, city, or country offers its own unique set of arts-based organizations and institutions, and the availability and support for internships can vary greatly.

Example Locations

Western Pennsylvania: Growing up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, my experiences as an aspiring artist largely came from local organizations and community galleries. These opportunities often included behind-the-scenes work, studio visits, and even minor administrative tasks. The focus was on hands-on experience and mentorship.

Edinburgh, Scotland: For my daughter, born and raised in Edinburgh, the landscape of internships in the arts was very different. She had access to a broader range of opportunities through local universities, arts festivals, and city-specific programs. She was also able to network more extensively with professional artists and arts organizations.

Expanding Your Scope

While it's always a good idea to start with what's local to you, don't be afraid to aim higher. If your local options seem limited, consider writing to larger institutions or organizations you're interested in, expressing your passion and willingness to learn. However, it's crucial to maintain your wellbeing and ensure you only share necessary information with reliable contacts.

Tips for Expanding Your Search

Research extensively: Identify national and international art organizations, galleries, and festivals. Use their websites and social media to get a sense of their current and past projects. National Resources: Look into national arts councils and organizations that offer internships. For example, the British Council for International Training in Visual Arts or similar organizations. Networking: Attend art fairs, workshops, and community events in your area. Connect with artists, curators, and other key figures in the arts. Online Opportunities: Explore online internships and virtual opportunities. Many organizations with global reach offer remote internships.

Key Points to Consider

When embarking on your journey to secure an art internship, it's essential to keep a few key points in mind:

Be specific: Clearly define what kind of internship you are seeking. Are you interested in gallery work, creative writing, digital media, or another aspect of the arts? Highlight your passion: Tailor your application or query to showcase your genuine interest and commitment to the field. Personal stories and specific examples can be very compelling. Prepare for the long haul: Building a career in the arts can be a long-term process. Prepare to give yourself the time and space to explore different opportunities. Stay safe: Be cautious of unsolicited offers or requests for personal information. Always verify the credibility of organizations before committing.

Remember, the arts are a global endeavor, and no single location offers the perfect opportunity. By understanding the unique opportunities available in your local area and being open to exploring beyond your immediate surroundings, you can find the right fit for your career aspirations in the arts.