Youth arts apprenticeships
Interested in an arts or design career?
Get hands-on experience that builds your resume and portfolio.
Open to Sonoma County youth, ages 14–21.
2026 Summer programs & volunteer opportunities:
Now you can volunteer on the Brookwood Community "Roses" Mural
The Brookwood Community "Roses" Mural was a major portion of our summer program, teaching collaboration, patience, and techniques for producing components of a very large mural to be installed later this fall.
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Current project status: In progress
We currently have openings for volunteer roles for the "Roses" mural. We need extra helping hands to finish painting giant roses for the Brookwood Community "Roses" Mural! Ages 14-up.
If you are a creative youth student 14 and up, or an adult interested in volunteering, please contact us directly.
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Who Will Paint The Final Rose?
Join the fun of painting the remaining roses and have the satisfaction of being a part of this huge community project!
Want to gather a group of friends together for a rose-painting party? Let's make it happen!
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Regular paint days:
August 17th through Mid-September
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Mondays, 9:30 am – 1:30 pm
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Wednesdays, 9:30 am – 1:30 pm
Group paint reservations:
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Contact us for a date and time between now and mid-September.
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RSVP FOR THIS PROJECT:
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Prince Memorial Greenway "Refresh"
Mural Restoration
(ages 14-21)
This summer, the Mural Restoration Apprenticeships offer hands-on training in restoring public murals in Santa Rosa under the direction of local muralist Chris Mckee. Apprentices work directly on real sites, learning conservation techniques, surface preparation, and restoration methods while contributing to the preservation of community artworks.
This is an intensive, technique-driven program running over two 4-week sessions. Participants are encouraged to attend both sessions for a full training experience.
Past Summer Session Dates:
June & July: Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
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Current project status: Completed, July 30, 2026
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Art-Making at Artstart
& "Roses" Mural
(ages 14-21)
Art-making at Artstart is a studio-based summer program. Guided by lead artists, participants explore a range of materials, techniques, and creative approaches in a collaborative art studio environment. This program offers a flexible, hands-on experience for students interested in building skills through active making and participation in collaborative and individual projects.
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Current project status: In progress
Scroll back to the top of the page for volunteer opportunities for this project.
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Past Summer Session Dates:
June & July: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
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APPLY TODAY!
Eliza's Village Murals
(for students ages 18-up)
Apprentices gain hands-on mural experience while learning alongside a professional artist on a site-based project, and doing good for the community!
This summer, Artstart is teaming up with a professional muralist to lead the Eliza’s Village Mural Apprenticeship in Santa Rosa. Using color theory and simple nature-inspired forms, we will transform key common areas for a housing site that supports adults transitioning out of homelessness. The goal is to create a more welcoming, grounded environment that strengthens a sense of place, dignity, and belonging.
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Current project status: In progress
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Arts education & real-world experience.
In this entry-level arts education program, teens and young adults gain hands-on, real-world experience while learning techniques used in collaborative public art and placemaking projects, including murals and mosaics. Depending on the session, the program may also include informal guidance and discussion about artist statements, résumés, portfolios, artistic goals, and future opportunities in the arts.
4-8 week sessions
Students participate in a 4-week session, or two 4-week sessions over the summer. Meet new people! Experience new things!
Stipends*
Artstart provides participation stipends for eligible youth enrolled in its apprenticeship programs. A typical stipend is $300 for a 4-week session and $600 for an 8-week session, based on successful participation in the program.
Stipends are intended to support youth participation and recognize the commitment involved in completing the program. They are not calculated as an hourly wage.
*Stipends, Lead Artists, supplies, and related program and project costs are supported through grants, government funding, sponsorships, and private donations.
How to apply
1.
Apply online
One form for 3 programs - easy!
Dates & Deadlines:
For Session 1:
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Apply by: May 2
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Status Notice: Sent by May 12
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Confirmation Due: May 19
Session 2:
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Apply by: May 30
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Status Notifications: Sent by June 5
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Confirmation Due: June 12
> Open the Application!
2.
Your Portfolio
Email 5-10 full-color images of your work after completing your online application to: apply@artstart.us
For each piece, list 4 details: title, dimensions, medium, and year completed. The portfolio can be work you’ve done independently or for an art course.
Prioritize showcasing original work you are proud of, Include projects you have done in more than one medium. We are looking to get an idea of your skill level in various media, your creativity, your eye for design, etc.
Portfolios are reviewed, and students are selected by the Artstart Programs Director and lead artists.
Email your portfolio images to:
3.
Consent & Waiver Forms
If you are under 18, have your parents review your online application, and sign and deliver this Parental Consent & Waiver form before you begin the program.
If you are 18 or over, please sign this Waiver form.
Email completed form to Director Heather Brook at: