The Art Supply Co.’s Art Handler Collaborative Apprenticeship

The Art Handling Apprenticeship is a paid art handling training program and an extension of The Art Supply Co., the art consulting branch of Casey Droege Cultural Productions.

Over a period of ten months, two art handler apprentices engaged in our projects with clients and select VACE partner organizations through a series of professional development sessions, site visits, and on-the-job training. Apprentices explored art handling standards, connected with local creatives, and developed skills that applied to future endeavors. Apprentices were guided by Dave Zak, TASC’s Lead Art Handler, and Kate Pirilla, a professional art handler, through hands-on work for local arts organization partners and independent clients.

Apprentices were required to complete an unpaid orientation training and then a minimum of 50 hours of paid art installation training and services within a 10-month period to be granted official certification from the program. At completion of the program, Apprentices earned a bonus stipend and received recommendations for future opportunities.

Through an open call process, TASC selected two emerging professionals with a passion for the arts, a desire to develop technical skills, and an interest in connecting with local creatives. We sought candidates with a strong interest in working in the arts who showed an eagerness to learn and work as part of a team.

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First Cohort

Vania Evangelique and Lataya Johnson

Vania Evangelique, formally known as Zeal Eva, works within the visual realms of painting, photography and curation. Being a visual storyteller, her work is deeply rooted in personal history and  is heavily influenced by the communities in which she navigates.

A woman with dark skin and blue braided hair is looking at the camera with a neutral expression. She is wearing a black top, and the background is a solid, muted teal color.

Lataya Johnson is a Pittsburgh local who has a wide range of passions which include the arts and curating events. After obtaining a degree in fine arts, she continues to explore and expand her creative pursuits. At present, she is dedicating her time to an art installation apprenticeship with The Art Supply Co. this opportunity has helped her to learn invaluable installation skills, connect with members of the Pittsburgh arts community, and create lasting memories that will undoubtedly benefit her  artistic career and future pursuits.