Hey everyone! As the holidays approach, it’s the perfect time to relax, but also to give your future career a boost. If you’re aiming to break into creative industries like film, design, writing, or art, here are some tips on how to make the most of your break.
1. Expand Your Knowledge: What to Read
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Books on Creativity and Industry Insights:
- “Steal Like an Artist” by Austin Kleon - a fantastic read about finding inspiration.
- “The War of Art” by Steven Pressfield - great for overcoming creative blocks.
- “Show Your Work!” by Austin Kleon - learn how to get noticed and build a following.
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Magazines and Journals:
- Creative Review - for the latest in design, advertising, and visual culture.
- Juxtapoz - for a dive into contemporary art and culture.
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Blogs and Online Resources:
- Brain Pickings by Maria Popova - insights into art, science, and creativity.
- 99U - practical advice on leading a creative career.
2. Get Inspired: What to Watch
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Documentaries:
- Abstract: The Art of Design (Netflix) - an inspiring series on leading designers.
- Helvetica - a documentary about typography, graphic design, and global visual culture.
- Exit Through the Gift Shop - a film by and about street artist Banksy.
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Movies and TV Shows:
- The Creative Brain (Netflix) - explores creativity through various disciplines.
- Chef’s Table (Netflix) - while it’s about chefs, the creativity and passion are universally inspiring.
3. Explore and Network: Places to Visit
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Museums and Galleries:
- Visit local art museums and galleries to immerse yourself in creativity.
- Check out special exhibitions, workshops, and lectures.
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Creative Conferences and Festivals:
- Attend events like SXSW (South by Southwest) for media and arts networking.
- Look for local creative festivals, film festivals, and art fairs.
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Coworking Spaces and Maker Spaces:
- These spaces often host events and workshops, providing great networking opportunities and resources for your projects.
4. Hands-On Experience: Where to Look for Jobs and Internships
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Job Boards and Internship Sites:
- Behance Job Board - ideal for design and creative positions.
- Mandy.com - for film and TV industry jobs and internships.
- ArtStation Jobs - for opportunities in the gaming and entertainment industries.
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University Career Centers:
- Utilize your school’s career services for internship placements and job listings.
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Networking Platforms:
- Join groups on LinkedIn related to your field.
- Participate in discussions on platforms like Stage 32 (for film) or Dribbble (for design).
5. Build Your Portfolio and Online Presence
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Create a Strong Portfolio:
- Use platforms like Behance or Dribbble to showcase your work.
- Regularly update your portfolio with new projects and freelance work.
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Start a Blog or YouTube Channel:
- Share your creative process, tips, and projects. This can attract followers and potential employers.
6. Learn New Skills: Online Courses and Workshops
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Online Learning Platforms:
- Skillshare and Udemy offer courses in design, writing, photography, and more.
- MasterClass - learn from the best in creative fields like writing, film, and design.
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Local Workshops and Classes:
- Check community centers, art schools, and local universities for short-term classes.
Final Thoughts
The holidays are a great time to invest in your future. By exploring new resources, connecting with professionals, and building your skills, you’ll return to school with a competitive edge. Happy holidays and happy creating!
Have you read it or any other?