Art, Atmosphere, & Apparitions: Texas Creative Students take on the Ultimate Ghost Assignment
At Texas Creative Careers of Arts, learning extends far beyond the classroom. Recently, our TV Production, Digital Media, and Creative Arts students had the unique opportunity to visit the legendary Monteleone's Haunted Motel & Restaurant in El Paso, Texas, for an immersive hands-on production experience.
Known for its fascinating history, mysterious stories, and distinctive atmosphere, Monteleone's provided the perfect setting for students to put their creative and technical skills into practice. Equipped with state-of-the-art cameras, professional lighting systems, audio recording equipment, and video production gear provided by Texas Creative Careers of Arts, students transformed the historic location into a real-world production studio.
Throughout the visit, students captured stunning photographs and cinematic footage of the property, documenting everything from the motel's vintage architecture to the restaurant's unique character. The experience allowed them to apply classroom concepts in a professional environment while gaining valuable experience working on location.
One of the highlights of the visit was the opportunity to conduct an exclusive interview with the owner of Monteleone's Haunted Motel & Restaurant. Students prepared questions, operated cameras, managed audio equipment, and conducted the interview themselves, gaining firsthand experience in documentary-style storytelling and professional media production.
During the interview, the owner shared the remarkable history behind the property, explaining how the motel and restaurant came to be and how it evolved into one of El Paso's most talked-about destinations. Students learned about the challenges and successes involved in preserving a historic landmark while creating a memorable experience for visitors from across the region.
The interview also provided valuable insight into entrepreneurship, hospitality, and the importance of storytelling in building a recognizable brand. By hearing directly from the owner, students gained a deeper understanding of how passion, vision, and dedication can transform an idea into a successful business.
Experiences like these are a cornerstone of the Texas Creative Careers of Arts educational philosophy. By combining classroom instruction with real-world opportunities, students develop the confidence, technical skills, and professional experience needed to succeed in today's creative industries.
The visit to Monteleone's Haunted Motel & Restaurant was more than just a field trip—it was a chance for students to become photographers, videographers, interviewers, and storytellers while exploring one of El Paso's most intriguing locations. Through hands-on learning experiences like this, Texas Creative Careers of Arts continues to prepare the next generation of creative professionals for successful careers in media, production, marketing, and the arts.
We are proud of our students' creativity, professionalism, and enthusiasm throughout this exciting project and look forward to providing many more opportunities that bring learning to life beyond the classroom.
