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.