I want a career in the arts. Parents: don’t be afraid

Picture the scene: an enthusiastic child comes home and announces that they want a career in the arts. My message to parents and carers: don’t be afraid.

It is indeed the case that in generations gone by, a career in the arts was deemed not to be a “proper job”. My mother often laughs and cringes when she recalls her advice to me to; get a proper job!

What careers are available within the arts?

This is a big question. I believe that art – or creativity – exists in everything: architecture, mathematics, science, sport, teaching, history, engineering and more besides. We have all been to the cinema. Naturally our focus in on the actors that suspend us from our reality and take us on a journey. Have you ever questioned just how many people make that film possible?

1917

Last December, the Oscar winning film, 1917 was released. Based during World War I, the film follows two British soldiers — Lance Cpl. Schofield and Lance Cpl. Blake –who  receive seemingly impossible orders. In a race against time, they must cross over into enemy territory to deliver a message that could potentially save 1,600 of their fellow comrades — including Blake’s own brother.

Here is a list of the diverse creative talent that made the film a reality:

• Actors – 91
• Writers – 7
• Producers – 11
• Music – 27*
• Cinematography – 1
• Editing – 31
• Casting – 5
• Design – 1
• Art – 140
• Set design – 1
• Costume – 36
• Makeup – 57
• Production – 8
• Second unit direction – 17
• Sound – 39
• Special effects – 31
• Visual effects – 203
• Stunts – 28
• Camera – 68
• Animation 3
• Location management – 24
• Transport – 14
• Other crew – 97**

Music*

27 people wrote and organised the music and an additional 70 musicians performed the emotive score.

Other Crew**

Additional unsung heroes within the arts include:

• Accountancy
• Legal
• Catering
• Accommodation
• Logistics
• Carpenters
• Electricians
• Decorators
• Drivers
• Riggers
• Security
• Mechanics
• First Aid

Could you teach?

Many people who are passionate about the arts often have portfolio careers that include teaching, advising and mentoring. A dynamic teaching career can enable you to further your love for the arts whilst imparting your knowledge and enthusiasm to other aspiring creative people.

Qualifications for the modern economy

MLC offers a range of dynamic courses that are designed to help equip you for the modern creative industry. These include Arts Award, Creative Enterprise, Creative Practitioner and Diplomas in Teaching. Contact us today and let us help you unleash your potential.

In short, there are thousands of jobs available within the arts, all of which are fulfilling and rewarding.

Sit back and enjoy the show!

This iconic theme generates excitement and has done for over 100 years. Next time you’re at the cinema, consider that over 70 musicians are performing this piece of music that tells you to sit back and enjoy the show and then consider that hundreds of people worked day and night to bring you your favourite film.