Andrea Thompson

While most high school students choose a general academic path and others are being recruited for athletics, students in the arts face different and very specific requirements when applying to the art program or college of their dreams. Musicians and dancers must audition. Artists must create and present a portfolio. And in the background, parents may be worrying and wondering how their children will make a living.

If pursuing art in college is a topic of conversation in your household, consider “Art as a Life & Career Path,” Phillips’ Mill’s special presentation by Andrea Thompson, arts education manager of the Michener Art Museum, on Sunday, February 5 from 2- 3:30 pm. Thompson holds a master’s degree in art education from Penn State University, is an honors graduate from Moore College of Art and Design, and holds a bachelor’s degree in art education with a focus on sculpture. She has been with the Michener Art Museum since 2014.

Thompson, who has worked with students for many years, will discuss the excitement and challenges of this path and address the following topics: The myth of the starving artist: Can working artists make a living?; Career avenues: Non-traditional and other career paths artists can pursue; Pursuing art in college: The challenges and differences inherent in the application process; and Opportunities for students at the Michener Art Museum.

The hour-and-a-half program will allow plenty of Q & A time after Thompson’s presentation. All high school students are invited to attend. Parents are also welcome.

This event is free and will take place at Phillips’ Mill, 2619 River Road, two miles north of New Hope. Registration is required at phillipsmill.org/event/art-as-a-life-career-path.

Phillips Mill now features the “10th Annual Youth Art Exhibition,” also free, on view weekends from 12– 4 p.m. through February 19. The exhibition showcases the works of 140 high school students from 22 area schools and includes paintings, works on paper, sculpture, photography and digital artwork.

For more information, visit phillipsmill.org.