Internship

For students who are looking for a graduate internship in the field of art, generally the places to search out are large museums. These venues are the ones that have been able to secure funding for interns in the various fields of interest to art students. However, for those who are looking for experience rather than an income there will be more options.

A graduate internship in art may be as short as ten weeks, or as long as a year. It is a good idea to research diligently to discover the many opportunities which may be available in the specific area of interest.

Particular art internships may focus on such fields as collections, special exhibits, art history, curatorial duties, documentation, public education (including print, broadcast and electronic media), design, educational resources, preservation, or other areas. There are opportunities which will place the student in roles where he or she will interact with the public, and those positions which are more academic. For example, public education might involve the leading of actual hands-on art experimentation with adults or children, or it might focus on development of a curriculum.

Internships may be funded and offer a stipend. The income is usually lower than that of a regular employee, but offers valuable experience and may lead to a job offer. Other times internships may not be funded, but might result in academic credits on the student’s record. These types of internships may be more flexible; a student may be able to propose a specific project of personal interest, whereas a funded position may need to adhere to the requirements set down by the funding source. Some internships may not carry either income or academic credit, but still offer valuable experience to the intern.

If someone is looking for experience only, search out art communities or art guilds. Often, artists may have banded together to preserve a particular art form (especially folk arts). Such groups usually are eager to welcome younger members who are interested in learning, but they may not have the backing of wealthy patrons.

For an art student who is seeking experience before entering the work force, a graduate internship offers wonderful opportunities. One can explore what it is like to spend an extended time working at a particular task. A good internship allows a student to explore both the profession and their own suitability, and to then make wise career choices.