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Logo for DEPOT's ArtsLab programme.

About ArtsLab

Depot’s ArtsLab recognises the value of creative people to the economic, cultural and social fabric of Aotearoa New Zealand.

We provide professional development and career guidance for creatives who are registered with Work and Income and on the job-seekers benefit. Previously known as PACE (Pathways to Arts and Cultural Employment), we are Aotearoa New Zealand’s longest running creative employment service.

We empower creatives to take steps towards sustainable employment and build resilience and agility. Based in a multi-disciplinary arts ecosystem – Depot – we provide opportunities for creatives to connect and get involved in the New Zealand creative scene.

Rooted in the Devonport community since 1996 Depot is committed to supporting artists and creatives to grow their practice, grow their confidence, grow their income, grow their connectivity and grow their creative future.

The ArtsLab programme offers a holistic perspective and practical approach to career development and employability. Our caring and dedicated team use a wide range of professional tools and activities including interactive workshops, one-on-one career coaching, networking, and mentoring. We focus on job-search support as well as CV, LinkedIn, and cover letter writing to help get our clients employed.

We work with

DESIGN

● Graphic designers
● Web designers
● IT and games
● Industrial designers
● Fashion designers
● Jewellers

FINE ARTS

● Painters
● Photographers
● Sculptors
● Illustrators

FILM & TV

● Animators
● Actors
● Camera operators
● Special FX technicians
● Make-up artists
● Costume designers

MUSIC

● Performers
● Composers
● Songwriters
● Producers
● Audio engineers
● DJ’s

& MORE

● Writers
● Editors
● Web & IT Developers
● Dancers

● DO YOU have a qualification or career history in the creative sector?
● ARE YOU motivated to find a job in the creative sector or a side job while
sustaining your creative practice?
● WOULD YOU value support in your personal, professional and creative
development?
● DO YOU want to network with other creatives and learn practical skills like
targeted CV writing?

We can help you to…

● Figure out your next career step
● Expand your job search strategies
● Present as a standout candidate in interviews
● Build on your creative practice
● Develop a growth mind-set

Find out more

If you are on Job Seeker Support you have to complete a compulsory job seekers course, so why not opt for one that specifically caters to those in the creative industries like yourself?

Following the introductory workshop, ArtsLab offers six months of ongoing job search support, a large network of creatives, subject matter experts and expertise to support you in your personal and professional development.

We are passionate about taking our creatives to the next level in their careers!

Fill in the form below if you are interested to find out more:

Enquire about ArtsLab

What previous ArtsLab clients say:

Portrait of an ArtsLab graduate sketching

I have nothing to say but good words about ArtsLab and their staff, and truly appreciate all that they have done for me. Each week I attended, I felt like I’d walked away with more confidence. I was helped through the entire process of finding a job; from organising my portfolio, sorting out my CVs, getting advice on job searching, analysing job advertisements, learning how to write great cover letters, cold-calling prospective employers, doing mock interviews, workshops on social media, plus a workshop on budgeting and tax info for the self-employed: all giving me invaluable skills that I will hold onto for life. But apart from all of these great benefits, I was able to spend hours in the company of other like-minded job seekers (and some who have now become good friends), giving me even more incentive to find work. And along with the staff who were always encouraging, friendly and happy to listen as well as give out advice, I found my experience in JobLab not only productive but really enjoyable. Therefore I really recommend their services to anyone who needs that extra push to get them on the right track of finding work

ArtsLab Graduate
Graphic Designer
Portrait of an ArtsLab graduate in a park with a video camera on a tripod

It’s hard after you graduate from art school. It almost feels like you are left alone. When I graduated, I had few ideas but didn’t know exactly what to do and where to start. When you don’t have specific things to do it’s easy to get depressed and lose your belief in your own work. As I attended meetings and the workshop I slowly gained confidence. ArtsLab not only taught me how to get out in the real world but encouraged me personally and helped me to believe in what I was doing. ArtsLab supported me in every aspect and covered my weaknesses. ArtsLab is the transition place between the art school and the real world. Things that you should know, but are not taught at art school are covered by ArtsLab. I was lucky to be part of the ArtsLab programme.

ArtsLab Graduate
Visual Artist
Portrait of an ArtsLab graduate working on a computer

My ArtsLab experience was exceptional! I was doubtful at first, as I went into the programme feeling overqualified and as if I already had all the tools I needed for successful job hunting. The ArtsLab staff were so kind and proved that they were truly there to help get us back on our feet in a safe space. They coached us through the elements of job hunting, provided job interview coaching and offered networking opportunities and advice from established creative professionals — All of this, including their tailored CV and cover letter templates, helped me to quickly secure work within my field.

ArtsLab Graduate
Editor/Copywriter
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