Description

Live and work at an artists' village in Southern India! ELI works with an artist's village that was started by thirty artists with the goal of reviving modern creative arts and creating an independent, self-sustaining community of artists. This is an amazing retreat for artists who would like to get out of the city center and immerse themselves in an art colony. The village has become an important arts center in South India. Participants bring their own projects to work on, and come to find inspiration. Other activities include: Working at the arts center, working side-by-side with Indian Artists, helping to improve the facilities, maintain displays, develop marketing strategies, and any other projects. Volunteers must be self motivated, independent, and ready for an adventure!

Highlights

All ELI Programs are set up on a completely individual basis according to the interests and skills of each participant and the current needs of the local organizations we work with. During the summer we have set group orientations, please check out website or call us for dates.

Participants in India experience India's vibrant culture in one of the most exciting parts of the country. The rich cultural heritage of South India is evident in the colorful festivals, elaborate temples, and daily rituals.

ELI participants work with local organizations and have a rare opportunity to gain insight into the day-to-day workings of Indian organizations.

The programs in India have completely flexible start dates most months of the year. During the summer months of May, June, and July orientation starts every other weekend. Participants should arrive in Chennai on the start date.

Summer 2012 arrival dates in Chennai:
May 14, 28
June 11, 25
July 9, 23

ELI volunteers are met at the airport and taken to a hotel for their first night in Chennai. Orientation starts the next morning. During the orientation we will help you set up a cell phone, exchange money, and take you sightseeing in Chennai before you settle into your program.

Qualifications

Demonstrated interest in the visual arts.

Intern Types

• Art/Fine Arts
• Marketing, Ad, PR
• Museum Studies
• Art History
• Creative Writing
• Liberal Arts

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

Costs vary depending on duration. Please contact us for details

Cost Includes:

• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Written materials pre-departure

Program Fees Include:

* Pre-departure Support: ELI's expert staff will be happy to assist you with planning your trip!

* Airport Pickup: Participants are met when they arrive at the airport in Chennai and brought to the program accommodation

* In-Country Orientation: Each program starts with a 2-3 day orientation to help participants get their feet on the ground and able to navigate South India

* In-country Staff Support: ELI's India coordinator has years of experience working with Volunteers, Interns, and Study Abroad Students. He is very resourceful and on call 24/7 in case of emergency.

* Accommodations: Participants stay in housing associated with the project and are provided with three basic vegetarian meals a day.

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Typical Volunteer

There is no typical ELI volunteer. We work with people from all over the world and a variety of backgrounds. ELI has placed volunteers ranging in age from 18-81. Successful volunteers are flexible, upbeat, energetic, and inquisitive.

Age Range

18-70

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently

ELI-Experiential Learning International's Mission Statement

ELI's full name, Experiential Learning International, reflects our philosophy. We believe that the most compelling life lessons come through experience, and that international experiences are among the most profound influences on our sense of self and our view of the world. ELI facilitates flexible international learning programs for independent travelers by partnering with local organizations to give participants the opportunity to experience and contribute to sustainable ongoing local projects throughout the world.

Year Founded

2001