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.
Art experience & learning
In this entry-level arts education program, teens and young adults gain a rewarding real-world experience—while learning techniques involved in collaborative public works and placemaking projects, such as murals and mosaics. The program often includes guidance on professional development, such as artist statement, resume, or portfolio tips for college applications or future employment 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*
This is a stipend-based youth arts apprenticeship. A typical stipend of around $300 per 4-week session is provided to a student for full participation in the program.​
*Stipends, Lead Artists, supplies, and related project costs are funded by a grant, through city or county government, or by private donations. ​If you are interested in funding an apprentice, find out more here.​
Programs this summer:
APPLY TODAY!
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.
—
Mural Restoration Session Dates:
Session 1: June 1 – June 24 / Deadline extended to May 25
Session 2: June 29 - July 23 / Deadline extended to June 15
—
Days: Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays
Time: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm​
—
​​​​
APPLY TODAY!
ART-MAKING AT ARTSTART
(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.
​​
—
June & July: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays
Time: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
​—
​Session 1: June 1 – June 25 / Deadline extended to May 25
Session 2: June 29 – July 23 / Deadline extended to June 15​
—
​
​
APPLY TODAY!
ELIZA'S VILLAGE MURAL
(ages 18-21 only)
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 muralist Tyler Shahan 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.​
​
—
June & July: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays
Time: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
​—
​Session 1: June 1 – June 25 / Deadline extended to May 25
Session 2: June 29 – July 23 / Deadline extended to June 15​
—
​​
​​
​
How to apply
1.​
​Apply online
One form for 3 programs - easy!
Dates & Deadlines:
For Session 1:
-
Apply by: May 2
-
Status Notice: Sent by May 12
-
Confirmation Due: May 19
Session 2:
-
Apply by: May 30
-
Status Notifications: Sent by June 5
-
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:
​