Resources for Visual and Performing Arts Students

Calling all aspiring artists! Whether you're a dancer pirouetting across the stage, a painter weaving stories onto canvas, a singer belting out powerful notes, or a performer captivating audiences, TeenLife is your one-stop shop for navigating your artistic journey.

Feeling overwhelmed by the transition from high school to the world of professional arts? Don't sweat it! Our free, downloadable 2024 Guide to Your Future in Arts — and our new 2024-25 Guide for Performing and Visual Arts — are your comprehensive roadmaps. Packed with insightful articles, inspiring interviews with established artists, and a glimpse into the daily lives of professionals, this guide will answer all your burning questions:

• What does it take to succeed as a professional artist?
• What educational paths can lead me to my dream career?
• How do I navigate the competitive world of the arts?

Still on the fence about colleges? We've got you covered! Check out our curated list of the top colleges with renowned art and design programs. These institutions boast world-class faculty, cutting-edge facilities, and a vibrant student community – the perfect environment to hone your artistic skills.

Looking for something more specific? Explore our massive directory of thousands of program opportunities on teenlife.com! From summer workshops at prestigious art institutes to portfolio development courses and gap programs, find the programs that align with your artistic goals and take your skills to the next level.

Want more opportunities and professional organizations associated with the arts? Check out these other resources. Bookmark this page and start planning your artistic future today! TeenLife is here to support you every step of the way.

Visual Art & Design

• American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA)
  The AIGA is the world’s largest professional association dedicated to design. It represents professionals across various disciplines, including graphic design, typography, interaction design, and more. Its mission is to elevate the design profession by setting standards, advocating for designers, and fostering a vibrant design community.Through its network of chapters and resources, AIGA provides a platform for designers to connect, learn, and grow. It offers professional development opportunities, awards, and publications celebrating design excellence. Check out its student resources.
• Americans for the Arts
  This nonprofit organization is dedicated to advancing the arts in the U.S. and cultivating, promoting, and sustaining them by representing and serving local communities. Its goal is to create opportunities for every American to participate in and appreciate all forms of art.
• The Art Career Project
  This resource helps aspiring artists navigate their career paths. It offers guidance on artistic careers, educational paths, and professional development opportunities. The project aims to empower artists to achieve their goals and build sustainable careers in the creative industry by providing information and tools.
• Artist’s Network
  This comprehensive online platform and community supports artists of all levels. It offers various resources, including video tutorials, magazines, products, and events. Its goal? To inspire and educate creatives by providing a space to learn, connect, and grow.
• Association of Independent Colleges of Art and Design (AICAD)
  This non-profit organization represents leading art and design schools in the U.S. and Canada. AICAD works to strengthen member institutions, inform the public about the value of art and design education, and foster collaboration among schools. They offer resources for students, faculty, and the broader arts community.
• Association of Photographers (AOP)
  The AOP represents professional photographers in the UK and Europe, with a global reach. It advocates for photographers’ rights, offers business support, and promotes the highest standards of photographic practice.
• Association Typographique Internationale (ATypl)
  This global non-profit organization is dedicated to typography and typeface design. It’s the leading international forum for professionals and enthusiasts in the field. It hosts annual conferences globally, works to raise awareness and appreciation for typography through exhibitions, publications, and educational initiatives, and provides a platform for collaboration among type designers, foundries, and other industry professionals.
• College Art Association (CAA)
  CAA advances the field of art and design. Founded in 1911, CAA promotes excellence in scholarship, teaching, and artistic practice. Through its network of members, conferences, and publications, the organization fosters a vibrant community of art, historians, artists, and educators.
• Design History Society
  This international organization promotes the study and understanding of design history. Through conferences, publications, and networking opportunities, it brings together scholars, designers, and enthusiasts to explore the rich history of design and its impact on culture and society.
• Design Incubation
  This non-profit organization focuses on design research and education. It provides a platform for communication design researchers to share their work, engage in critical dialogue, and refine design practices. Its inclusive community welcomes designers at all stages, from students to professionals.
• Doodle for Google
  This annual art contest welcomes submissions from U.S. K-12 students invited to create their own Google Doodle based on a specific theme. Google features the winning doodle on its homepage for a day, awards the student a college scholarship, and gives their school a grant. The contest’s goal? To inspire creativity and recognize young artistic talent.
• Graphic Artists Guild (GAG)
  This professional organization supports and empowers graphic artists by offering resources, advocacy, and community. The GAG is crucial in improving working conditions, promoting fair compensation, and advancing the graphic arts industry for designers, illustrators, animators, and other visual creatives.
• International Game Developers Association (IGDA)
  This global non-profit organization supports and empowers game developers worldwide. It serves as a unifying force for the industry, bringing programmers, designers, artists, and producers together. The IGDA offers resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy to help game developers, including students, thrive in their careers.
• Inter-Society Color Council (ISCC)
  This non-profit organization advances the understanding and application of color across fields like science, industry, and art. The ISCC fosters collaboration and research in color science and technology by bringing together experts from diverse backgrounds. Learn about student memberships.
• National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD)
  NASAD is a leading accrediting organization for art and design programs in the U.S. It establishes and maintains high standards for undergraduate and graduate degrees. NASAD accreditation signifies a commitment to quality education and ensures that member institutions meet rigorous criteria in curriculum, faculty, facilities, and student support services.
• National Association of Independent Artists (NAIA)
  This non-profit organization supports and advocates for artists exhibiting their work at art shows and fairs. NAIA provides resources, education, and a community for artists to connect and thrive. It works to improve the overall art show experience for artists and attendees.
• National Portfolio Day Association (NPDA)
  This organization facilitates portfolio reviews between prospective art and design students and accredited art and design school representatives. Through in-person and virtual events, NPDA provides a platform for students to showcase their work, receive feedback, and learn about various programs and institutions. It plays a vital role in gilding students toward their desired education and careers.
• New Media Caucus (NMC)
  This non-profit organization promotes the understanding and development of new media art, representing and serving individuals in the field, including artists, designers, educators, historians, scholars, students, and theorists. The NMC is committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in this community.
• Photographic Society of America (PSA)
  This global community is dedicated to fostering a passion for photography and offers a platform for photographers of all levels to connect, learn, and grow. PSA uses competitions, educational resources, and networking opportunities to empower its members to enhance their skills and achieve their photographic goals.
• Professional Photographers of America (PPA)
  This leading U.S.-based association serves photographers of all levels, from students and amateurs to professionals. It provides education, resources, and a strong community for members, fostering professional growth and business success.
• Society for Environmental Graphic Design (SEGD)
  This global community of designers focuses on creating impactful experiences within the built environment. Their work includes wayfinding, signage, exhibitions, and other visual communications that enrich people’s interactions with their surroundings. SEGD promotes excellence in the field, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among designers, architects, and other industry professionals. Student memberships are available.
• Society of Illustrators
  Founded in 1901, the Society of Illustrators is the oldest and largest professional organization dedicated to promoting the art of illustration in America. It offers a platform for illustrators to network, exhibit their work, and engage in educational programs. It also advocates for the rights and interests of illustrators. Student memberships are available.
• Society of Illustrators, Artists, and Designers (SIAD)
  This international accreditation organization supports and recognizes creative professionals worldwide. Unlike a membership-based association, SIAD focuses on accrediting artists, designers, and illustrators across various disciplines. This accreditation validates their expertise and signifies their commitment to professional standards.
• The Society of Typographic Aficionados (SOTA)
  This global non-profit organization promotes, studies, and supports the art of typography. SOTA offers conferences, educational initiatives, publications, networking opportunities, and other resources to encourage the appreciation and understanding of typography in its various forms.

Music

• American Choral Directors Association (ACDA)
  This non-profit organization promotes excellence in choral music. The ACDA celebrates the importance of choral music in education and society, offers professional development via workshops, conferences, and publications, provides platforms for choral ensembles to showcase their talents, and fosters research and scholarship in choral music.
• American Composers Forum (ACF)
  This non-profit organization supports and promotes contemporary classical music and its creators. The ACF offers resources and opportunities for composers, including grants, commissions, and mentorship. It also has initiatives, including the First Nations Composer Initiative, which supports Native American composers and Composers and Communities, which fosters partnerships between composers and diverse communities. 
• American Federation of Musicians (AFM)
  This labor union represents professional instrumental musicians in the U.S. and Canada. It’s the largest organization globally dedicated to advocating for musicians’ rights and interests and plays a crucial role in safeguarding their livelihoods and well-being.
• American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP)
  This non-profit performance rights organization (PRO) represents the rights of songwriters, composers, and music publishers in the U.S. It collects licensing fees from businesses using music, like radio stations, television networks, restaurants, bars, and digital streaming services. 
• Association of Performing Arts Professionals (APAP)
  This national service, advocacy, and membership organization provides support and resources for people in the performing arts presenting, booking, and touring industry. Its most well-known activity is the annual conference, which brings together thousands of industry professionals to network, showcase new work, and discuss industry trends.
• Audio Engineering Society (AES)
  This professional organization is a global community of engineers, scientists, and other professionals in audio technology. The AES helps shape the future of audio by fostering innovation, education, and collaboration within the industry.
• National Association of Schools of Music (NASM)
  This non-profit organization establishes national standards for undergraduate and graduate degrees in music and music-related fields. The NASM accredits music programs, promotes the importance of music education, and conducts research on music education and industry trends.
• Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI)
  A U.S. performance rights organization (PMO), BMI grants businesses permission to publicly perform music written by its members, collects license fees, protects the rights of music creators, and promotes the value of music.
• Careers in Music
  This organization provides an in-depth look at different music jobs. Its website includes over 130 music career profiles for people who want to perform on stage or work behind the scenes. It also provides industry insights and current trends.
• CelloBello
  This online platform provides comprehensive cello education and resources for cellists of all levels. It aims to democratize cello education by making high-quality instruction accessible to everyone, regardless of location or financial means.
• Chorus America
  This non-profit organization supports and advances the choral arts, serving as a vital resource for choral directors, administrators, board members, and singers.
• Classical Singer
  This platform is a valuable resource for classical singers, providing news, articles, interviews, and other information about the classical world. 
• College Music Society (CMS)
  This non-profit organization promotes music education and research in higher education, serving as a platform for faculty, administrators, students, and other music professionals to connect, share ideas, and advance the field.
• International Association for the Study of Popular Music (IASPM)
  This global organization is dedicated to the scholarly study of popular music. It provides a place for researchers, academics, and music enthusiasts to share knowledge, ideas, and insights about various aspects of popular music.
• International Society of Jazz Arrangers and Composers (ISJAC)
  This non-profit organization supports and promotes the work of jazz composers and arrangers worldwide. It honors outstanding achievements in jazz composition and arranging and offers resources and opportunities for career advancement. 
• International Society for Music Education (ISME)
  This global organization promotes music education worldwide, serving as a platform for music educators, researchers, and policymakers to collaborate, share knowledge, and advocate for its importance. 
• Jazz Education Network (JEN)
  This non-profit organization promotes jazz education at all levels, from elementary to higher education, as it fosters the growth and development of the jazz arts community. Its national conference brings together educators, students, and professionals worldwide to share knowledge, network, and celebrate jazz.
• Majoring in Music
  This website helps prospective music students make informed decisions about pursuing a music degree in college and beyond. It offers information on different types of music degrees (performance, composition, music education, etc.) and the programs offered by different colleges and universities.
• Music Teachers National Association (MTNA)
  This non-profit organization supports, grows, and develops music teaching professionals, empowering them to excel in their profession and provide exceptional music education to their students.
• National Association for Music Education (NAfME)
  The world’s largest arts education organization is a collaborative community supporting music educators and advocating for equitable access to music education. It is committed to ensuring all students can experience the life-changing benefits of music education.
• National Association of Record Industry Professionals (NARIP)
  This non-profit trade organization supports the careers of music industry professionals. It offers a range of programs and services to help its members build successful careers in the music industry.
• National Band Association
  This professional organization promotes the musical and educational significance of bands. It provides a space for band directors, musicians, and enthusiasts to connect, share knowledge, and elevate the art form.
• National Collegiate Choral Organization (NCOO)
  This professional association serves the specific needs of university and collegiate conductors, choral faculty, and music students. It also supports student members in their transition to professional careers.
• New Music USA
  This non-profit organization, formed through the merger of the American Music Center and Meet the Composer, provides financial support for composers, performers, and organizations involved in new (contemporary) music. It also offers programs to help emerging artists build their careers.
• Opera America
  This non-profit U.S. service organization supports the creation, presentation, and enjoyment of opera. It serves as a resource for the entire opera community, including opera companies, artists, and audiences.
• Performing Arts Alliance
  This national policy advocate (NPO) represents the interests of performing arts organizations, artists, and their allies before Congress and key policymakers. The alliance works to ensure the performing arts have a strong voice in shaping public policy and that these arts receive the support they need to thrive.
• Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia
  The world’s oldest and largest social fraternity for men with a special interest in music, it offers its members a range of programs and activities, including musical performance opportunities, leadership development workshops, and philanthropic initiatives.
• Sigma Alpha Iota (SAI)
  This international music fraternity has a rich history of empowering women through music. It offers programs and opportunities for its women musician members, including scholarships, grants, and performance platforms.
• Society of Composers, Inc. (SCI)
  This professional organization supports the creative work of composers. It’s dedicated to promoting, performing, understanding, and disseminating new and contemporary music.
• The Society for Electro-Acoustic Music Association (SEAMUS)
  This non-profit organization promotes the creation, performance, and research of electro-acoustic music. 
• Student National Association of Teachers of Singing (SNATS)
  This student-run organization, affiliated with the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS), is a place for vocal students to learn about the profession of voice teaching, network with peers, and gain practical experience in the field.

Theatre

• Actors’ Equity Association (AEA)
  This association, often called Equity, is a labor union representing professional actors and stage managers in the U.S. It’s been instrumental in improving working conditions and wages for theatre professionals.
• American Alliance for Theatre & Education (AATE)
  This professional organization promotes the development of theatre in education and serves as a primary advocate for theatre education and theatre for young audiences in the U.S. 
• American Association of Community Theatre (AACT)
  This national organization supports and promotes community theatre, serving as a vital resource for community theatre companies, actors, directors, and volunteers across the U.S.
• American Society for Theatre Research (ASTR)
  This U.S.-based professional organization fosters scholarship on worldwide contemporary and historical theatre and performance.
• American Theatre Wing
  This non-profit organization supports excellence and education in theatre. It’s a cornerstone of the American theatre landscape, known for nurturing talent, recognizing achievement, and cultivating a vibrant theatre community.
• Association of Performing Arts Professionals (APAP)
  APA is the national service, advocacy, and membership organization for the live performing arts field. It’s dedicated to developing and supporting a robust performing arts presenting, booking, and touring industry and the professionals working within it.
• Association of Theatre in Higher Education (ATHE)
  This non-profit organization supports and advances the study and practice of theatre and performance in higher education. It’s a central hub for theatre professionals, scholars, and students involved in academic theatre.
• Black Theatre Network (BTN)
  This organization is committed to preserving and promoting the rich heritage of Black theater. Comprised of artists, educators, scholars, students, and theatre enthusiasts, BTN explores and celebrates the theatrical visions of the African Diaspora.
• Costume Designers Guild (CDG)
  This union represents professional costume designers, assistant designers, and illustrators working in film, television, commercials, and other media.  
• Costume Society of America (CSA)
  This non-profit organization fosters an understanding of appearance and dress practices worldwide through research, education, preservation, and design.
• Dramatists Guild of America
  This professional organization represents playwrights, composers, and lyricists in the U.S. theatre market. Founded in 1921, it’s been instrumental in protecting the rights and interests of playwrights.
• Educational Theatre Association (EdTA)
  This international non-profit organization is a professional association for theatre directors that promotes theatre education from elementary to high school. It’s also the parent organization for the International Thespian Society (ITS), an honor society for theatre students.
• Get Into Theatre
  This comprehensive online resource is designed to help aspiring theatre professionals navigate their career paths. It provides essential information and opportunities for those looking to break into the theatre industry.
•  Hispanic Organization of Latin Actors (HOLA)
  This non-profit organization is dedicated to expanding the presence of Hispanic artists in the entertainment and media industry. By promoting diversity and inclusion, HOLA has helped grow the visibility of Latinx artists in Hollywood and beyond.
• International Drama/Theatre and Education Association (IDEA)
  This global organization promotes drama and theatre in education, bringing together educators, practitioners, and researchers worldwide to share knowledge, collaborate on projects, and advocate for the importance of drama in education.
• International Expressive Arts Therapy Association (IEATA)
  This non-profit organization promotes the use of the expressive arts in therapy, education, and community development by providing practitioners with resources, support, and recognition.
• International Thespian Society (ITS)
  This honors society for high school and middle school theatre students is a division of the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA). Its mission is to foster a love of theatre and inspire the next generation of theatre artists.
• National Alliance for Musical Theatre (NAMT)
  This non-profit organization supports the development of new musicals, serves as a resource for the musical theatre community, and provides opportunities for writers, composers, lyricists, producers, and other industry professionals.
• National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST)
  This organization establishes and maintains national standards for undergraduate and graduate degrees in theatre and theatre-related disciplines. It helps ensure the quality of theatre programs nationwide.
• On Stage Blog
  This popular online publication covers the world of theatre, with a particular focus on Broadway and community theatre. It offers content, including the latest theatre news, reviews, and opinion pieces; feature interviews with actors, directors, and other theatre professionals; advice and audition tips for aspiring actors and performers; and more.
• The Society of American Fight Directors (SAFD)
  This professional organization promotes safety and champions excellence in the art of stage combat. It’s a great resource for actors, directors, producers, and educators involved in creating safe and realistic fight scenes within the theatre, film, and television industries.
• Stage Managers’ Association (SMA)
  This professional organization supports stage managers in the U.S., providing resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities for stage managers working in theatre, dance, opera, concerts, and other live performance events.
• Theatre Communications Group (TCG)
  This NYC-based non-profit service organization promotes non-profit theatre in the U.S. Its publications include American Theatre magazine and ARTSEARCH.
• Theatre Library Association (TLA)
  This non-profit organization promotes collecting, preserving, and using theatrical and performing arts materials. It also offers professional development opportunities for librarians, archivists, and curators.
• United Scenic Artists (USA)
  This organization—also known as Local USA 829 of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE)—is a labor union representing designers, artists, and craftspeople in the entertainment and decorative arts industries.
• United States Institute for Theatre Technology, Inc. (USITT)
  This non-profit organization advances the skills and knowledge of theatre, entertainment, and performing arts professionals involved in design, production, and technology. It also publishes the Theatre Design & Technology journal.

Dance

• The American College Dance Association (ACDA)
  This national organization supports and promotes the wealth of talent and creativity in college and university dance departments. It’s also a platform for students and faculty to showcase their work, receive feedback, and network with professionals in the dance field.
• Dance Informa
  This online publication provides news, interviews, auditions, and advice for dancers, dance teachers, and industry professionals.
• Dance into College
  This specialized college counseling service focuses on helping dancers find the perfect college fit. They offer comprehensive guidance and support for students aspiring to pursue dance in higher education.
• Dance Studies Association (DSA)
  This member-driven organization celebrates the field of dance studies, bringing together scholars, educators, and artists to explore dance from various perspectives, including the arts, humanities, and social sciences.
• Dance US
  This organization offers resources for professionals, students, and dance enthusiasts to grow their knowledge about various dance forms' history, culture, and artistry.
• Dance USA
  This national service organization for dance serves a broad spectrum of the dance industry, including professionals, organizations, and audiences, providing leadership, opportunities, and resources.
• The International Association of Blacks in Dance (IABD)
  This organization preserves, promotes, and expands opportunities for dance by people of African ancestry or origin, supporting and uplifting the Black dance community and ensuring its continued growth and recognition.
• International Association for Dance Medicine & Science (IADMS)
  This global network promotes the health and well-being of dancers through medical and scientific research, education, and practice. It offers educational programs and resources for healthcare professionals and dancers and connects medical professionals, dancers, and researchers.
• National Association of Schools of Dance (NASD)
  This organization establishes and maintains standards for undergraduate and graduate degrees in dance and dance-related disciplines, ensuring the quality of dance programs nationwide.
• National Dance Education Organization (NDEO)
  This non-profit organization supports and advances dance education for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. It provides resources, advocacy, and professional development opportunities for dance educators, students, and administrators.

Educational Resources

• American Documentary (AmDoc)
  This non-profit media arts organization produces, acquires, and presents independent documentaries. It’s committed to showcasing diverse perspectives and addressing critical issues and has been a leading force in the documentary filmmaking world.
• Art21
  This non-profit organization educates and expands access to contemporary art primarily by producing documentary films featuring groundbreaking visual artists worldwide.
• Dance Magazine
  This publication is a multimedia platform offering news, trends, interviews, reviews, and insights into the world of dance. It remains a trusted source for dance professionals and enthusiasts alike.
• Folger Shakespeare Library
  This library, located in Washington, D.C., houses the world’s most extensive collection of Shakespeare’s works and is a repository for rare materials from the early modern period in Europe and Britain. It offers a wealth of resources online, where you can explore their collections, participate in virtual programs, and explore the world of Shakespeare and his contemporaries.
• GenArt
  This platform has launched emerging talent in fashion, film, music, and visual arts, gaining prominence for its events and initiatives showcasing new and innovative creative work.
• Kennedy Center Arts Education
  This comprehensive program inspires and empowers students and young artists through the power of the arts. It offers resources, programs, and initiatives to support educators, schools, and communities incorporating the arts into learning.
• National Endowment for the Arts (NEA)
  This independent federal agency is the largest funder of the arts and arts education in communities nationwide. By supporting a thriving arts ecosystem, the NEA contributes to the cultural vitality of the U.S.
• National Gallery for the Arts
  This Washington, D.C., museum houses an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts spanning centuries of Western art. Its website allows visitors to explore the collections, learn about art, and access various educational resources.
• New York Foundation for the Arts
  This non-profit organization empowers artists and arts organizations by providing support, resources, and opportunities to help artists thrive in different stages of their careers.
• Open Arts Journal
  This peer-reviewed, open-access platform showcases diverse perspectives and scholarship in the arts. It covers various topics, including art, architecture, design, heritage, and cultural diversity.
• Panorama: Journal of the Association of Historians of American Art
  This peer-reviewed, open-access online publication is dedicated to American art and visual culture. As the official journal of the Association of Historians of American Art (AHAA), it contributes to advancing American art history.
• Sparketh Online Art Courses
  This online platform offers a vast library of art video lessons designed specifically for students ages 6 - 18. It provides fun, engaging ways to learn art techniques from drawing and painting to sculpture and digital art.