“Stepping into unknown territory can be daunting, but it’s where growth happens. Embracing challenges and taking initiative have become second nature. As I conclude, I’m not just leaving with a sense of accomplishment, but with newfound leadership skills that will stay with me.”
— 2023 graphic design intern

About

Since 2001, over 1,450 high school students have participated in ArtWorks’ programs that encourage development and practice in essential soft skills for their future careers.


our vision:
all youth have access to career readiness opportunities.

 

ArtWorks for Milwaukee provides high school students with paid internships in the arts. Every ArtWorks internship is designed to help teens develop transferable job skills that are critical to today’s working world.

 

are you an artworks ally?

This fall, we’re looking to build our base of community support by recruiting new monthly donors, who we call ArtWorks Allies, to support our programming. 100 individuals making a gift of about $15/month each would be the equivalent of a major grant for us.


This internship helped me speak up, come out of my shell, and show more of myself and talents. This organization helped me come a long way. I don’t feel nervous now like I was before. This changed me alot, and showed me my true talents.
— Lonnie, 2018 intern

“I’ve learned how to be a leader and a collaborator. I’ve also learned about technique and critical thinking, as this project has been a lot of trial and error. I am very proud of this project and the work we have put into it. I’m happy that it can be displayed somewhere it will be appreciated.”
— 2023 environmental arts intern
ArtWorks has provided my students with caring adult mentors who have helped them connect with the professional world beyond just their internship experience. I have seen students excited to go to work, and proud of the work they did within their internship. I saw first-hand the exciting, creative, and professional work my students did within their internship, but I also saw that work extend back into their education.
— Bethany, local high school teacher

Volume 2 now Available!

Find stress-relief this year
with our intern-designed coloring book!


For Artworks’ 20th anniversary in 2021, we invited intern alums to talk about the impact their internship has had on them.