"In August 2019, I arrived in Canada with aspirations of furthering my career in the arts industry." shares Nipun Kudalkar, a two-time Centennial grad. In Mumbai, India, Nipun was an apprentice to a Fine Art conservator, completed a post-grad in Arts Conservation, and established his own studio. However, he eventually discovered what he says was a yearning for more challenges and growth.
“I encountered the inspiring story of a young Parisian girl who had succeeded in Canada after relocating to Montreal. Intrigued by the openness and abundance of opportunities that this new world presented, coupled with my sincere passion for the Canadian TV series Trailer Park Boys, I decided to embark on my journey and make Canada my new home,” he shares.
Nipun first pursued the Museum and Cultural Management program after recognizing the need to enhance his skills. “Graduating from this program served as a gateway to opportunities in the arts logistics industry,” he explains. However, because he graduated right around the time the pandemic brought things to a standstill, he decided to lean on his passion for arts and culture and return to the School of Communications, Media, Arts and Design to take the Arts Management program.
In our Q&A below, Nipun answers some questions about the Arts Management program to provide greater insight into his experience.
Q. In which ways do you think the Arts Management program helps prepare students for their careers?
One of the key strengths of the program lies in its emphasis on experiential learning. Students are provided with ample opportunities to engage directly with art organizations, gaining firsthand experience in various sectors of the arts industry. This exposure extends beyond a single sector, enabling students to explore multiple facets of the arts and develop a well-rounded understanding of the field.
Additionally, the program's faculty members play a vital role in preparing students for their careers. Professors regularly invited guest speakers who are industry professionals, providing students with insights into the current trends, challenges, and opportunities within the arts sector. This exposure to industry experts allows students to stay abreast of the latest developments and gain a comprehensive understanding of the professional landscape they will be entering.
Another strength of the program is the diversity of the student cohort itself. With classmates pursuing various forms of art, students have the unique opportunity to learn from their professors and one another. This diversity fosters a collaborative and supportive learning environment where students can exchange ideas, share experiences, and gain valuable insights from their peers.
Q. Are there key lessons you picked up from the program that you use in your career today?
The Arts Management program at Centennial College has equipped me with valuable lessons and skills that I consistently apply in my current career. The practical knowledge gained from the program has proved to be instrumental in various aspects of my professional journey.
One significant instance where I directly utilized the knowledge acquired from the program was during my interview process at The National Ballet of Canada. As part of the interview, I was given an exercise that required applying the concepts and techniques learned during the ARTM lectures. The comprehensive notes I had prepared during the course served as a valuable resource, enabling me to successfully complete the exercise and showcase my understanding and competence in the field. This experience reinforced the practical relevance of the program and highlighted the effectiveness of the course materials in real-world scenarios.
Furthermore, the program played a crucial role in developing a deeper and broader understanding of the arts industry. When I was searching for internships, I initially gravitated towards visual arts organizations. However, through collaborative discussions with the program coordinator, Rebecca Peirson, I gained insights that helped me formulate a more strategic plan for my internship search. This guidance led me to explore diverse opportunities within the arts industry, broadening my perspective and exposing me to different sectors and organizations. As a result, I secured a successful internship experience that provided me with invaluable exposure and enhanced my understanding of the industry.
The program's emphasis on planning for the future has also been a valuable lesson that I continue to apply in my career. The coursework encouraged me to adopt a proactive approach in mapping out my professional path and setting goals. This mindset has enabled me to navigate my career trajectory with intention, seeking out opportunities aligned with my interests and aspirations.
The lessons and skills acquired from the Arts Management program at Centennial College have been integral to my career development. The practical knowledge gained through lectures, the application of course materials during interviews, and the guidance received in planning for internships have all contributed to my professional growth. - Nipun Kudalkar
Nipun’s Career Today
As the Officer, Prospect Research at the National Ballet of Canada, Nipun’s day-to-day centers around gathering and analyzing information about potential donors or prospects. “By providing valuable insights and supporting fundraising strategies, I contribute to the organization's ability to secure resources and support its mission and programs effectively,” he adds.
Nipun is part of a group of Arts Management graduates working at the National Ballet of Canada, which you can learn more about here.
Article by: Alexandra Few
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