At Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, traditional creative disciplines are being joined by a new, pragmatic course aimed squarely at equipping young artisans with the business acumen necessary to navigate the often treacherous waters of their chosen professions. The pioneering "Arts Entrepreneurship" course was introduced to aid students in bridging the gap between artistic passion and entrepreneurial savvy, according to the Duval County Public Schools.
Students are already feeling the impact of this innovative education. Erin Perkins, a junior in Performance Arts, told Duval County Public Schools, "With a lot of arts areas, you need to learn how to market and pitch to people,” shares Perkins, a junior in Performance Arts. “This class has helped me with public speaking (and) being able to present ideas." This reflects a tangible evolution beyond the classroom, preparing students to eventually, and effectively, pitch their talents in the marketplace.
The curriculum also explores less considered, yet critical aspects of the art world, including the legalities of copyright infringement, through engaging practical exercises like mock trials. Sophia Cabe, as per the district's article, said, "We had to look at two songs and see if they were ripping off one another...if (the song) that came later ripped off the one that came earlier." These real-world simulations are designed to demystify the complexities of the business behind the arts, as per the Duval County Public Schools.
Among the course's subjects are business infrastructure and the roles of corporate figures such as the CEO and CFO, which are taught through a diverse mix of online learning and creative projects. According to teacher John Citrone, "I think these projects that I've created connect with them in a way that they don't necessarily get from vocabulary lists or fill in the blank tests." He strives to strike a balance that keeps students both interested and informed, ensuring they know how to not only create but also to protect their creations, as noted by the Duval County Public Schools.
According to the Duval County Public Schools, Douglas Anderson School has additionally tapped into its alumni network and industry connections to further augment the experience. Notable guest speakers have included, among others, Roger Butterly from The Walt Disney Company and Charlie Medure, an entrepreneur in the local restaurant industry. Alexa Meriwether, a senior in the Vocal program, said, "It's not really something you think about until you are put in a position where you have to." This exposure provides students with a clearer picture of where art meets industry in the real world.
Arts Entrepreneurship is more than just another optional course; it is quickly becoming an essential cornerstone for any young artist eager to understand and impact the world beyond their craft. As Fiona Cabe eloquently puts it, "I want to be sure that I can understand how the business is working with me. That way I can exist within it without being naive to it," as mentioned by the Duval County Public Schools.
