Welcome to the Art Institutes Podcast, presented by Art Institutes Organization. This is the show where we celebrate the people and institutions shaping the future of art education and creative industries. Whether you're leading an art institute, teaching the next generation, or managing a cultural space, you're in the right place. So, let's get started!
In Today’s Episode: "From Studio to Strategy – A New Path for Art Graduates" Sponsored by Art8
Welcome back to the Art Institutes Podcast. Today, we’re talking about expanding what being in the “art industry” really means. Let’s dive in.
Beyond the Studio
If you’re a recent art graduate, you’ve probably heard the same question over and over: "What’s next?" Maybe you love creating art but also want a stable, impactful career in the arts world. Here’s the good news—your skills are needed beyond the studio. Arts organizations are looking for people like you to step into management roles. Why? Because you bring fresh perspectives, digital savvy, and a deep love for the arts—things that can’t always be taught.
Let’s talk about why this shift matters and how you can make it happen.
First… Why arts management? The cultural sector is evolving fast. Organizations need people who understand artists but can also tackle challenges like funding, audience engagement, and digital transformation. That’s where you come in. You’re already fluent in the language of art. You know how social media works. You’re passionate about making creative work thrive. Those are huge assets in management roles.
Bridging the Gap
Now, let’s talk about the skills you’ll need to bridge the gap.
Business skills might sound intimidating to an art graduate, but they’re just another form of creativity.
Start with the basics:
Budgets and funding: How do you turn an artistic vision into a realistic plan? Learn how grants, donations, and ticket sales keep organizations running.
Project management: Have you ever organized an exhibition or student show? You’ve already got experience. Build on it with tools like Asana or Trello.
Marketing and communication: You know how to tell stories. Now, apply that to writing grants, promoting events, or connecting with audiences.
Becoming an Arts Manager
Learning those skills would be a great start, but it’s not just about spreadsheets and emails. The best arts managers are problem-solvers, collaborators, and leaders. Think about the “soft” skills you’ve honed in the studio, such as, giving feedback, adapting to challenges, working in teams. Those matter just as much.
So, how do you get started? Here are three steps:
Seek the right experience. Look for internships or volunteer roles in management—development, marketing, or operations. Even small projects count. Did you help plan an event? That’s project management.
Leverage your network. Talk to arts managers—not just about jobs, but about their day-to-day work. What skills do they use most? Professional groups, like Americans for the Arts, can also open doors.
Invest in learning. Take a workshop on grant writing or nonprofit finance. Many are low-cost or even free. Platforms like Coursera offer courses in leadership and marketing—skills that last a lifetime.
Support from Art Institute Leaders
And to arts organizations leaders out there who are listening… hire these graduates. Their passion is your competitive edge. Create entry-level roles with room to grow. Offer mentorship. The future of the arts depends on bridging this gap together.
So, to every art graduate wondering, "What’s next? You should all know this: Your creativity isn’t limited to the studio. It can shape the very systems that support art. The path might not be traditional, but it’s yours to design. Start small, stay curious, and remember—you’re exactly who the arts world needs right now.
Thanks for listening to the Art Institutes Podcast. This episode has been brought to you by Art8, “Webinars for Creatives”. Share your artistic passions, sell your art, learn new skills, and build your tribe, with Live or On-Demand expert webinars. Learn more at www.art8.net.
Here's how to stay connected to Art Institutes. First, subscribe to the Art Institutes podcast so you never miss an episode. Next, sign up for our popular newsletter at news.artinstitutes.org.
Together, we're not just supporting the art world, we're redefining it. Thanks for tuning in to the Art Institutes Podcast. Remember, art doesn't just happen. It's foundation is built by institutions and individuals like you. So keep creating, keep leading, and we'll see you next time on the Art Institutes Podcast.
Here's how to stay connected to Art Institutes. First, subscribe to the Art Institutes podcast so you never miss an episode. Next, sign up for our popular newsletter at news.artinstitutes.org.
Together, we're not just supporting the art world, we're redefining it. Thanks for tuning in to the Art Institutes Podcast. Remember, art doesn't just happen. It's foundation is built by institutions and individuals like you. So keep creating, keep leading, and we'll see you next time on the Art Institutes Podcast.
