About the Mural Internship Program
The ArtReach Mural Internship Program offers hands-on experience in public art and community engagement for emerging artists in San Diego. Working alongside professional muralists, interns help bring large-scale murals to life in schools and neighborhoods while building real skills, professional connections, and creative confidence.
This paid internship is open to both youth (ages 16-24) and college students/recent graduates interested in pursuing careers in community-based art.
Public Art in Practice
- Assist professional muralists with painting projects throughout San Diego
- Prep walls, mix paint, and maintain tools and materials
- Support community paint days and mural unveiling events
- Work alongside students and community members during collaborative sessions
- Help document projects through photos and social media
Program Outcomes
- New artistic skills and techniques specific to mural-making
- Real-world work experience in the creative field
- Mentorship and professional references from ArtReach artists
- Community connections across different San Diego neighborhoods
- Increased confidence through collaborative, large-scale creative work
- Professional development in leadership, collaboration, and communication
Skills & Experience Developed
- Large-Scale Mural Painting: Prep surfaces, pull clean lines, blend colors, and paint on walls up to hundreds of feet wide
- Mural Design & Techniques: Experience the full process from concept to finished wall: transfers, color-matching, and execution
- Collaboration with Professional Artists: Work side-by-side with experienced muralists and learn how they approach their craft
- Community Engagement: Help lead paint days and connect people to the art being created in their neighborhoods
- Project Management: See what it takes to run a public art project from start to finish
We want to thank Uptown Tavern, our friendly neighborhood restaurant and bar right across from ArtReach, for sponsoring one year-long youth-specific internship through the Uptown Tavern Youth Mural Internship. Their support helps invest directly in local youth and the arts in our community.
Inquire About the Mural Internship Program
Contact: Izzy Halpern, Mural Program Manager at izzy@artreachsandiego.org