There should always be time allocated for learning and professional development, no matter your experience. Here are some suggestions for artists at all stages of their career for life long learning.
Leadership
Networks
Events
Mentorships + Internships
LEADERSHIP
Becoming a leader in the arts sector is a powerful way to contribute to the arts as an individual with experience and knowledge. Cultural leaders shape the future of the arts, helping the sector as a whole to adapt, grow, and develop.
NETWORKS
Many arts professions have dedicated networks, associations, guilds, membership organisations, or groups. Joining and actively participating in these networks creates opportunities for both yourself and other members in the networks, often in unexpected ways. Official networks are a way to meet your peers and share knowledge, stay up to date with relevant events and learning opportunities, find help, expand your field, and share resources.
EVENTS
It is worthwhile to make a list of venues, networks, and institutions that regularly offer professional development events in your chosen field. It can be easy to miss these opportunities, especially if you aren't part of a network, and nothing beats hands-on learning with your peers.
MENTORSHIPS + INTERNSHIPS
Mentorships can be intensely rewarding learning opportunities, for both the professional being mentored and the mentor. Becoming a mentor is a great way to put your learnings as a professional into practice and contribute to the next generation of skilled arts workers.
Conversely, professionals at all stages of their career can seek out a mentor to learn new skills and broaden their knowledge. Mentorships can be paid or unpaid, and most are organised through informal processes.
If you are seeking a mentor, you can approach a particular specialist that demonstrates the skills you would like to learn. If you would like to become a mentor, it can be a good idea to approach relevant networks and organisations to let them know that you would be happy to take on a learner.
LEarning REsources
Wherever you are on your learning journey we have some resources on setting up an effective learning environment and behaviours. You can find these at our Learning Resources page. Areas include;
Learning Library
Creating a Learning Plan
Studying + Working from Home
Make it Better
The Learning Hub is designed for self-directed learning and development, to assist you in growing your personal and professional skills as you see fit. It is a free and democratic resource that adapts as the creative landscape changes; the sections and links you see are just examples of what is possible.
We invite everyone to build upon this current structure, to make the Learning Hub a state-wide go-to for all artists and arts workers seeking development and for anyone considering a career in the arts. All ideas, feedback or content suggestions are warmly welcomed through the Make It Better contributors portal.