““The Artist Access Work/Trade Program is rooted in a deep commitment to truly supporting emerging and independent artists in media arts and digital media. It removes barriers by providing the tools, resources, and opportunities artists need to learn, create, and refine their craft. Through this program, artists can expand their creative practice, connect with the local community, and build work that makes a lasting impact.””
HOW TO APPLY
Are you a passionate, community-minded individual ready to grow in film, media, or the arts?
The Artist Access Program is a hands-on work/trade opportunity that blends workforce development with creative growth. Participants receive job training, real-world skills, and resume-building experience—while gaining the tools, education, and studio access needed to create and thrive as an artist.
Overview
Application Period: August 21 - September 3
Start Date: October 1, 2025
Term: October 1 - March 31, 2025 (6 months)
Orientation: September 22, 2025 (6:30pm - 7:30pm)
How It Works
Participants contribute up to 40 hours per month (about 10 hours per week) over a 6-month period.
In return, you receive all program benefits, including the year-long membership and education fund.
Selected participants receive:
1-Year Cinemaker Studio Membership – Unlimited access to professional studios, equipment, and a vibrant creative community (access begins after the first 30 days of the program).
$2,000 Education Fund – Apply toward any of our classes, workshops, or programs to deepen your skills (available after the first 30 days for one full calendar year).
On-Site Job Training – Gain practical experience in arts administration, studio operations, event coordination, customer service, and technical workflows.
Career Credentials – Strengthen your career prospects & build your portfolio with new skills & studio access
Creative Community Connections – Collaborate with like-minded creatives and expand your local network.
We’re looking for reliable, enthusiastic people—whether you excel with people, have tech skills, love organizing, or simply bring a willingness to learn. If you’re excited to support a space that uplifts local artists and fosters creativity, we want to hear from you.
This is not an internship—it’s a robust, skill-building work/trade program designed to provide meaningful workforce experience while directly investing in your artistic journey.
why it matters
We aim to flip the traditional workforce training model on its head by centering the power of creating art and the importance of supporting independent artists at every stage of their career.
The Artist Access Program was designed to break down the barriers that often keep emerging creatives from accessing professional tools, education, and industry connections. By providing hands-on training on-site in our studios and classrooms as coordinators, the program gives local residents practical experience, strengthens resumes, and builds the real-world skills essential for sustainable careers in the creative sector. It also enriches our community by ensuring that diverse voices and talents have the resources and support they need to thrive—keeping our city’s artistic ecosystem vibrant, inclusive, and innovative.
Beyond what this program offers participants individually, your involvement directly supports a long-standing nonprofit dedicated to empowering artists of all mediums by providing the education, space, and tools they need to grow their careers and expand their creative work.
How We View Success
Success looks different for every person, and it’s not always measured by how much capital you generate. While we understand that making money is part of the world we live in, our focus is on giving the community a space to create meaningful work and building skills that can lead to future opportunities.
Media arts is part of every industry, and the abilities developed here have value far beyond the studio. Everyone has to start somewhere, and this program is designed to meet people where they are, providing the resources, space, and support they need to take their next step.
Economic development is not the driver of this program—it’s a byproduct. Art is not economic development, but economic development happens when the arts are supported.
Photo featured by Chie Endo (Eani Creative), taken at CINEMAKER (2025)
ARTIST ACCESS COORDINATORS - SUMMER 2025