In an era when many young adults struggle to find meaningful, stable employment, the arts offer an often-overlooked solution that lies in plain sight. Creating Work: Building Young Adults’ Careers through the Arts, a new report from Public Works Partners, explores how creative programs can prepare young people for both payroll jobs and gig economy work—building confidence, communication, and collaboration along the way.
Written by Principal Allison Quigney, the report examines how arts-based workforce initiatives—from theater apprenticeships to youth-led media labs—equip participants with technical and transferable skills that employers value across various industries. It highlights proven models from New York City and beyond, and offers actionable strategies for integrating the arts into broader workforce and economic development systems.
The takeaway is clear: the arts aren’t a luxury. They’re a dynamic engine for equity, innovation, and opportunity.
Read the full report: Creating Work: Building Young Adults’ Careers through the Arts
