Fireworks Display Artist

Fireworks display artists, also known as pyrotechnicians, give fireworks shows at functions, parties and on special occasions. They need to ensure that they are conducting a safe show, as fireworks can be very dangerous.

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Fireworks display artists promote the sale and production of good quality fireworks. They combine education with science in order to give a spectacular show. Every year, fireworks display artists gather at PGI (Pyrotechnics Guild International), where they share experiments, information, processes and formulae. These meetings feature seminars, lectures, video representations and demonstrations.

Commercial products used by firework display artists are: time fuses, black powder, electric matches, round shell castings, cardboard discs, cylinders and tubes.

Fireworks display artists have various ranks: beginner, novice, intermediate, advanced and exhibition. Ground displays produce primary effects that begin on the ground, eg. fountains, wheels, waterfalls, rockets, etc.

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Personal Requirements

• at least 16 years old
• creative and self-motivated
• safety conscious
• aptitude for science
• able to handle failure

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How to Enter

Schooling & School Subjects

Compulsory Subjects: Art or a related subjects is highly recommended
Recommended subjects: Art, Design Studies, Engineering and Graphic Design

Additional: 

• An art portfolio is required to demonstrate your creativity, abilities and commitment.
• If you intend studying towards a degree in Fine Art at university, you will need to a Bachelor's pass in matric. If you intend studying a diploma in an art-related field, then you will need a Diploma pass in matric.
• Meet the admission requirements (APS) set by the university or requirements set by the college.

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What to Study

In-service further training may be provided under the supervision of an experienced fireworks display artist. Safety awareness is a prerequisite.

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Employment

• Novelty shops and fireworks display artists.
• Most firework display artists are self-employed, usually in a part-time capacity, while holding down another regular job.

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Further Information

South African Emergency Services Institute
SAESI House
295 Jorrisen Street, Off Voortrekker Road
Monument, Krugersdorp, 1739
Tel: (011) 660-5672 
www.saesi.com

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Getting Started

• become safety conscious by talking to a fire fighter
• familiarise yourself with the various types of fireworks and how to use them
• speak to a fireworks display artist about this type of work

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