Apprenticeship Program

The Alliance for California Traditional Arts (ACTA) Apprenticeship Program encourages the continuation of the state’s traditional arts and cultures by contracting master artists to offer intensive, one-on-one training to qualified apprentices.

Each $3,000 contract will support a period of concentrated learning for apprentices who have shown a commitment to and a talent for a specific artistic tradition.

How do I apply?

Please note that ACTA is no longer accepting applications for the 2010 cycle of the Apprenticeship Program.  The program has an annual summer deadline, so please return to our website often for updates.  The guidelines and application forms for the 2010 cycle are available for download below, but are offered for reference only.

Apprenticeship Program 2010 Guidelines

Apprenticeship Program 2010 Application Forms

Who is a master artist?  Who is an apprentice?

A master artist is someone who is recognized as an exemplary practitioner of a traditional art form by his or her community and peers.  An apprentice is someone who learns from a master artist.  Prospective apprentices should demonstrate investment and skill in the art form they wish to continue learning.  The master artist and apprentice must apply together.

How does the program work?

If selected, ACTA makes a contract with the master artist to implement the work plan submitted in the application.  The apprenticeship may last between six months and one year.  ACTA staff works closely with the apprenticeship team to articulate work plans, gauge progress, and offer assistance and support.  Near the midpoint of the project, ACTA staff documents the apprenticeship through recording and photography.  The resulting archival materials become part of ACTA’s permanent archival collections, which may be used publicly for educational purposes.  Each apprenticeship team organizes some type of public offering (performance, exhibit, etc.), in consultation with ACTA staff, in order to share the results of their intensive learning cycle.

Contracts of $3,000 will be made with California-based master artists to cover master artist's fees, supplies and travel.  For the 2010 cycle of the program, the apprenticeship will begin on or after January 1, 2010, and must be completed by December 31, 2010.  The apprenticeship must last at least six months, but may last up to one year, depending on the needs of the particular project.