High School Apprentice Training Program

As one of the original programs of The Fabric Workshop and Museum, the High School Apprentice Training Program offers students the opportunity to learn all aspects of hand screen-printing on fabric. In FWM's professional studios, students design and print their own fabric yardage and assist staff in the production of artist residency projects. Hand screen-printing 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.

Students from the Philadelphia area are encouraged to apply to the High School Apprentice Training Program. In two or three afternoons over 12 weeks, high school apprentices design and print a one-color repeat yardage, and assist in all areas of the studio. 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 High School Apprentice Training Program was created to provide excellent 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.

The application process includes an interview with the Apprentice Coordinator, to which each student must bring samples of his or her work, such as: drawings, a portfolio, or journal of recent artworks. To apply, please complete an application form and return it by the appropriate deadline to:

Apprentice Coordinator

The Fabric Workshop and Museum

1214 Arch Street

Philadelphia, PA 19107-2816

Download High School Apprentice application form (PDF)

Session Dates & Application Deadlines