VISITS AND DOCUMENTATION
During the project cycle, Folklife Program staff will plan to visit each project twice to document the work. Depending on the project and the tradition, documentation could include audio recordings, video recordings, and photography. The master artist and apprentice will be asked to sign permission forms designating the documentation for agency and educational use only.
At least one and possibly both site visits will occur at a teaching session. Public performances, demonstrations, workshops, participation in festivals, and other agreed upon events might also serve as appropriate settings for a site visit. Artists will be asked to maintain regular and timely communication with Folklife Program staff in matters of completing necessary paperwork, scheduling site visits, promoting and documenting public events, and other general efforts to support the projects and the program.
SELF DOCUMENTATION
Master artists and apprentices are strongly encouraged to document their work together in ways appropriate to the tradition and based on available resources. This self-documentation might include photography, video, audio, note-taking, blogging, social media posting, or some combination. Something as simple as a smart phone can accomplish most of these tasks. This documentation can be a valuable resource to both master artist and apprentice in the future, and, when shared publicly, can help tell the story of the traditional art form, the apprenticeship program, and the process of learning.
When possible, participants should use the apprenticeship project to help grow awareness in their home community about their art form and traditional culture more generally. Many past projects have sought and received coverage in local newspapers and other media. Folklife Program staff will support master artists and apprentices in these and other documentation efforts. A press release will be prepared for each team that can be used during the term of the project. Folklife Program staff will also create stories and posts about each team on the program website and social media.
PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS
Master artists and apprentices are also strongly encouraged to seek out and schedule a local presentation in their own town, city, county, or region. This may be an exhibition, workshop, demonstration, or performance at a local venue or event. This public component is intended to heighten local awareness and to illustrate the importance of passing on community traditions. Folklife Program staff can advise in this process and will help publicize the events.
EVALUATIONS
Both the master artist and apprentice will be required to complete an evaluation at the midterm and end of the project. The evaluation form will be supplied by Folklife Program staff and can be submitted as hard copy or online. A complete final evaluation must be submitted by both the master artist and the apprentice before final payment can be processed.
The evaluation will ask for such feedback as:
- Did you accomplish what you set out to do in your work plan? What were the major advances made?
- How did you measure success?
- How have you documented and shared your work with the public?
- Have you received any local or other recognition?
- What have been the major challenges?
