As one of the original programs of The Fabric Workshop and Museum, the High School Apprentice Training Program (HSATP) offers students the opportunity to learn all aspects of hand screenprinting on fabric in FWM’s professional studios. Hand screenprinting is an art form as well as an industrial skill, and the program is designed to provide students with new tools for artistic expression and self-empowerment. HSATP was created to provide exceptional art education for teenagers from diverse economic and cultural backgrounds, with the specific goal of offering an opportunity unavailable to students in their schools. FWM’s objective is to complement school resources and improve art education for high school-age students in the Philadelphia region.
Apprentices meet two afternoons per week during 12-week sessions, exploring the unique opportunity to create their own hand screenprinted artwork while building entrepreneurial and collaborative skills. The apprenticeship offers an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of museum operations, including training in public speaking, giving tours, and visiting local art institutions. For high school students, the apprenticeship is job training as well as an educational experience, and students earn minimum wage for their time. Students also receive portfolio and career guidance from artists and studio staff.
The application process includes an interview, to which each student will be asked to bring a portfolio containing at least five samples of recent artwork. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire. Apprentices under the age of 18 must obtain a working permit before the start of the program: https://www.philasd.org/cte/about/working-papers/. Apprentices under the age of 16 must also provide a written statement from their parent or legal guardian acknowledging the terms of employment. This form can be found on the Department of Labor and Industry’s website at: LLC-75, Parental Acknowledgement of Minor’s Duties and Hours of Employment. Frequently asked questions about working permits here: https://www.education.pa.gov/Schools/safeschools/emergencyplanning/COVID-19/Pages/Work-Permits-for-Minors.aspx.
Session Dates & Application Deadlines
Summer 2023 Session
June–July
Application Deadline: April 15, 2023
Fall 2023 Session
Mid-September–Early December
Application Deadline: July 15, 2023
Spring 2024 Session
Mid-January – Mid–April
Application Deadline: November 15, 2023
Click Here to Apply
Completed applications can be sent via e-mail to [email protected] or postal mail. Please note: applications sent by postal mail must be postmarked on or before deadline.
Mailing address:
The Fabric Workshop and Museum
Attn: Veronica Hanssens, High School Apprenticeship Coordinator
1214 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Questions? Please contact [email protected] or call 215.561.8888.