5 MEDIA ARTS CAREERS: Understanding the "ground floor" and how to climb the ladder!
Media Arts Careers
Part 1: Multi-Media Installations
Part 2: TV Production and Broadcasting
Part 3: Film Production
Part 4: Podcasts and Radio Broadcasting/Programming
Part 5: Projection Mapping: Creativity in both Live Theatre and Public Installations
The types of media arts careers are extremely varied. The National Endowment for the Arts’ definition of media arts is: “includes screen-based projects presented via film, television, radio, audio, video, the internet, interactive and mobile technologies, video games, transmedia storytelling, and satellite as well as media-related printed books, catalogues, and journals.”
*The NEA funds workshops and programs providing access to production and post-production facilities such as Scribe Video Center in Philadelphia and Squeaky Wheel Access Program in Buffalo, NY.
*The NEA funds labs on topics such as directing, producing, documentary, and radio production for organizations ranging from Film Independent in Los Angeles, CA, to the Association of Independents in Radio in Dorchester, MA.
*The NEA supports professional development and networking opportunities for media artists to enhance their skills and market their work.
*The NEA fuels creativity by awarding funds to produce new work in film, audio, radio, video, and online platforms.
*NEA funding of media arts, 1966-2016: $343.2 million
The SOUTH CAROLINA ARTS COMMISSION is also a source of support and funding for artists' educational workshops and project creation. BOTH the NEA and the SCAC should be well-researched, as they can be vital resources for the career of a serious, motivated artist.
This lesson will be split into 5 areas of specific interest. Each area includes a project to be completed.
Essential Question
If a student is interested in a MEDIA ARTS career, what are the things a student should know about that field before jumping in? And how can more things be learned? What organizations should an artist be aware of and/or join that could yield employment and artistic growth opportunities?
Grade(s):
- 8
- 9
- 10
Subject(s):
Recommended Technology:
Student Chromebook
Internet Access
Other Instructional Materials or Notes:
a small spiral notebook and pen, or cell phone
Lesson Progression
1. Go online and find the NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE ARTS [NEA].
2. Browse their site and read about their programs, workshops for artists, outreach to schools/organizations, and get a good feel for their purpose and projects.
3. Make notes in your notebook or phone: NEA, address, phone, name of their Director.
4. Now find online the SOUTH CAROLINA ARTS COMMISSION. Read about their programs, etc, just as you did about the NEA.
5. MAKE NOTES about any programs or workshops that interest you, if they are open to students, & if so, note the dates/places of those events.
6. Find a listing of the STAFF of the SC Arts Commission; write the names of several persons whose jobs sound interesting to you, & their contact information. If you live near Columbia, or would like to visit during available times, NOTE THEIR OFFICE HOURS, & email one of the interesting staff persons, asking if you can make a visit, and why you'd like to do so.
7. IN ADDITION, you will now WRITE A PHYSICAL LETTER to someone at the SCAC. Introduce yourself briefly, telling about the media arts area you are studying and any other interests you may have, where you go to school, etc. THEN, ask about any volunteer opportunities that might be available for the summer/workshops for learning more about Media Arts/how artists can qualify for project grants, etc. Be sure to include any contact information that is agreeable with your parents/guardian.
7. After you've neatly written [or typed & printed] the letter, sign it neatly, & let your teacher read it. If no changes need to be made, address the envelope, stamp it, and mail the letter from the school office.
8. You may or may NOT hear back, but writing a real letter can be very impressive; it's a real attention-getter in a world where emails/texts seem to rule, and exemplies the quality of "going the extra mile" to get a FOOT IN THE DOOR!
National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Website
The National Endowment for the Arts is an independent federal agency that funds, promotes, and strengthens the creative capacity of our communities by providing all Americans with diverse opportunities for arts participation.
View ResourceSouth Carolina Arts Commission
With a commitment to excellence across the spectrum of our state’s cultures and forms of expression, the South Carolina Arts Commission pursues its public charge to develop a thriving arts environment, which is essential to quality of life, education, and economic vitality for all South Carolinians.
View ResourceStandards
Assessments
1. The student will have notes in the phone or notebook regarding the NEA and its programs.
2. The student will also have notes about the SCAC and its programs.
3. The student will write an introductory letter to the SCAC with a small amount of personal info and inquire about opportunities for volunteering, etc. [explained above.]
4. The student will stamp and mail the letter.