ArtWorks for Milwaukee

ArtWorks for Milwaukee offers public facing arts projects that teens complete as part of the program. The program also includes community-focused art projects that are carried out by small groups of youth.

• Schedule: Monday–Friday, 9AM–5PM (hours may vary); ten-month, paid internships for teens

Since 2001, over 1,500 high school students have participated in ArtWorks for Milwaukee programs. ArtWorks for Milwaukee combines arts engagement with workforce development through intensive, ten-month, paid internships for teens. The organization hires cohorts of about ten youth to complete community-focused art projects while learning transferable career skills. ArtWorks trains youth in hard and soft career skills, while developing their confidence and self efficacy, through public facing arts projects. Its programs encourage development and practice in professionalism, collaboration, leadership, accountability, and other soft skills. ArtWorks’ programs focus on outcomes that reflect the common youth outcomes identified by its long-time funding and program partner MPS Partnership for the Arts & Humanities. The organization continually refines its programs and offers internships in various arts media to appeal to the wide interests of youth and the changing landscape of the 21st century workforce. The mission of ArtWorks for Milwaukee is: “Preparing youth for tomorrow by providing transferable career skills through art internships today.” The executive director is Rhiannon. Volume 3 of an intern-designed coloring book is now available for stress relief. One participant shared that they improved interpersonal skills and learned how to get along with coworkers, and another shared that they gained the confidence to apply to the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design.

Last updated February 25, 2026.