Works In Progress
Learn what the City of Austin has to offer in arts and culture and build your skills as a creative professional while contributing to the Austin community. Works In Progress (WIP) is a paid internship program for emerging creative professionals ages 17-19 who are ready for a career in the arts. Get paid while you explore creative career options, network with peers and potential employers, and develop your art practice.
Acceptance into the program is contingent upon your completion of the City of Austin's documentation verification process and our New Employee Orientation.
Are you interested in this opportunity? We’re looking for individuals who…
- Are high school students who are passionate about visual arts, performing arts, film, and music.
- Are 17-19 years old in age and living in Austin.
- Are interested in exploring careers in the arts and creative industries.
- Can commit to the full 8 Week internship (June – July 2025) in person at the Dougherty Arts Center
Applications
Works in Progress (WIP) 2025 applications are open! Deadline to submit an application is February 28th, 2025. Apply here for Works in Progress 2025.
Join our mailing list below to receive updates about the Works in Progress internship!
Frequently Asked WIP 2025 Application Questions
About Works in Progress
Works in Progress (WIP) is an immersive program that prepares teens living in Austin for careers in the arts. Through weekly workshops and networking, students will develop their professional skills, prepare for artistic careers and education beyond school, and meet with industry professionals and working artists. The goal of the program is to encourage students to follow their artistic passions and explore the diverse paths available in the creative industries.
The Works in Progress program is presented by the Dougherty Arts Center (DAC), part of the Museums & Cultural Programs Division within the Parks and Recreation Department of the City of Austin. We are committed to addressing the economic and racial inequities within our city, and teens from historically marginalized communities are especially encouraged to apply.
Questions? Contact worksinprogress@austintexas.gov
Art You!
The Dougherty Arts Center and the Works In Progress program present Art You! a youth led, arts-based networking event! Come and hear from local professional artists and learn about different careers in the arts.
Art You! 2022
Art You! 2022 was held in person at the Dougherty Arts Center on April 30, 2022 and included a guided art critique and art supply swap.
Featured 2022 Speakers:
- Anne Davieaux, arts entrepreneur
- Dan Wolff, graphic designer
- Andrea Munoz Martinez, painter and photographer
Art You! 2021
Art You! 2021 was held virtually on April 24, 2021. Our speakers shared with us their background in the arts and their path to where they are now.
Featured 2021 Speakers:
- Helena Martin, muralist and educator
- Kyle Armstrong, illustrator and educator
- Mai Gutierrez, architect and sculptor
- Kelly Hasandras, performing artist and educator
View the recording of Art You! 2021 on YouTube.
Art You! 2020
The very first Art You! event was held virtually in July 2020.
Featured 2022 Speakers:
- Yocelyn Riojas, multidisciplinary artist and activist
- Faustinus Deraet, photographer
- Jennifer Balkan, painter
View the recording of Art You! 2020 on YouTube.