Deadline: Monday, August 7

What is the Art Handler Collaborative?

The AHC is a paid art handling training program and an extension of The Art Supply Co., the art consulting branch of Casey Droege Cultural Productions. Over a period of six months, two art handler apprentices will engage our projects, clients, and select VACE partner organizations through a series of professional development sessions, site visits, and on-the-job training. Apprentices will explore art handling standards, connect with local creatives, and develop skills that they may apply to future endeavors. Apprentices will be guided by two experienced art handlers through hands-on work for local arts organization partners and independent clients.

What is required of an Art Handling Collaborative Apprentice?

AHC Apprentices are required to complete an unpaid orientation training and then a minimum of 50 hours of paid art installation training and services within a 6-month period to be granted official certification from the program. At completion of the program, Apprentices would earn a bonus stipend and receive recommendation for future opportunities. The basic breakdown of the hours are as follows:

• Attend one 3-hour long orientation for initial training (unpaid)

• Spend 3 hours with program leads visiting VACE galleries (unpaid)

• Work with our supervision on varied job sites to complete 50 hours of art installation (paid at $20/hr)

What does an Art Handling Apprentice receive?

• On-the-job experience at a rate of $20 per hour

• Access to art installation practices at various local cultural organizations and private clients

• Network of dedicated visual arts professionals

• Information on tools, best practices, big picture thinking, and issues in our field

What are we looking for in an Art Handling Collaborative Apprentice?

While anyone can apply to become an AHC Apprentice, we are looking for two emerging professionals with a passion for the arts, a desire to develop technical skills, and an interest in connecting with local creatives. Ideal candidates will have a strong interest in working in the arts and show an eagerness to learn and work as part of a team. We are seeking potential apprentices from all backgrounds, and we strongly encourage individuals who identify as BIPOC, LGBTQ+, Neurodiverse, or Disabled to apply. Potential fellows can be emerging artists, arts administrators, cultural workers who are early in their arts, culture, and/or community organizing career. AHC Apprentices should be available for all scheduled orientation events, have a flexible schedule, and be based in the Pittsburgh region.

Due to the physical nature of the job, AHC Apprentices may be required to stand for long periods, stoop, work with hands above shoulder level, lift a minimum of 25 pounds, and climb and work on a ladder.

  Highly competitive applicants will show:

• Evidence of a commitment to cultivating personal and professional skills

• A demonstrated interest in cultivating a healthier, more sustainable, more inclusive arts ecosystem for Pittsburgh.

To learn more and apply, click the button below.