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The Academy of Artistry & Activism

The Academy of Artistry & Activism is our educational program for those looking to learn and gain experience in directly affecting positive change in the world.

Current Projects:

PR/Press Outreach
Work to get the story of The Social Arts out to the public and media. Learn to use traditional methods (paper, tv, radio) and help develop non-traditional methods. Be a vital part of this exciting new movement through the combination of journalism, advertising and the arts. Candidates should possess outstanding communication skills and have a passion and flare for making bold statements.

Writer
We're looking for a well-rounded writer who is able to communicate with people from all backgrounds. Some of the writing includes, but is not limited to, taglines and slogans, op-ed pieces to the New York Times, magazine articles, pamphlets, speeches, announcements and advertisements. Candidates should be fearless and prolific, Editing and proofing skills a plus.

Fundraising & Community Development
As a public organization, we rely on The People to back our work. As part of the public face of The Social Arts, help build support through creative fundraising and community campaigns. Candidates should be genuine “people persons” and thrive on establishing rapport with folks from all walks of life.

The Griot
Write and edit articles for the monthly e-newsletter covering Artistry & Activism. This e-newsletter is a source of practical information and inspiration for the progressive community. Be a part of The Griot’s vision to help the progressive movement witness and integrate the strength and application of Artistry & Activism. Candidates should be well organized and able to conduct interviews. Knowledge of the progressive movement a plus.

UtopiaFest
We choose issues for our public awareness work based on a democratic conversation at UtopiaFest - a community event. Help organize events, document ideas and communicate with the people involved. Candidates should have excellent people skills , an eye for detail, respect for diverse personal expression and a sense of humor.

WPA Living Archive

At one time, our government supported artists by providing jobs through the Federal Art Project. From 1936-1943, the WPA Poster Division was responsible for designing, printing and distributing millions of posters to raise awareness about public issues. The government did not keep a central record of these posters. The WPA Living Archive searches through private and public collections to create the most comprehensive database of posters known to exist. Help preserve our American graphic design heritage through research, outreach, site visits, photography and archiving. Candidates should have the passion for discovery and the patience and fortitude to carry out the search.

ActivisMart
Proceeds from the sale of inspiring, communicative arts from the online store ActivisMart help fund our project – and provide an opportunity for artists to sell their work. Help coordinate inventory, develop new ideas and build economic opportunity for artisans.
Candidates should be well organized, and enjoy being around art and artists. Retail experience a plus.

Installations & Happenings
Art can move people to be more aware and more connected to important issues. Help envision, plan and install site-specific work. Organize grassroots happenings. Candidates should have an unshakeable belief in the transformative power of art, and an ability to create and work as a team. Organizing experience a plus.

Web Organizer
Help coordinate and maintain the publication of our website and web based projects. Keep project schedules and work with templates and e-mail lists. Candidates should be inspired to utilize the web in new, thoughtful and creative ways. Knowledge of code a plus.

Archivist
Document the life of The Social Arts, its projects and the people and communities it impacts. Collect pictures and sounds. Conduct interviews. Candidates should be meticulous, indefatigable and eager to speak with people of all backgrounds.

The Experience:
  • Opportunity to work directly with the people who founded and run Design for Social Impact and The Social Arts
  • Direct hands-on experience
  • Opportunity to take initiative and increase responsibility if desired
  • Active and highly creative environment around people who love their work
  • Access to a network of people affecting positive social change – many of them through arts & culture

The Benefits:

  • Fun, exciting atmosphere
  • Surrounded by people dedicated to making the world a better place
  • Food, fun, music and chocolate
  • Laughter

The Requirements:

Interns
Interns can apply to focus on any of the above projects. Some basic experience or education in area of interest required.
Minimum hours required: 12 hours/week.
Unpaid position. We pay for travel. Interns can attend all of our staff activities.
We can provide credit - if applicable with your school/university.

Volunteers
Pitch in on everything from project-related work (design, creation) to helping with office details and community events. Work may crossover between the above projects based on need.

How to Apply:
Send cover letter expressing interest to:
academy@thesocialarts.org

The Social Arts
525 S. 4th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19147



made with Artistry & Activism

525 South 4th Street, Studio 589, Philadelphia PA 19147 | 215.922.7303 | info@thesocialarts.org