AAMD Undergraduate Internship in Modern and Contemporary Art at MFAH

Description

MFAH Modern & Contemporary Department Undergraduate Internship

Internship Title: Undergraduate Intern, Modern & Contemporary Department

Academic Level: College undergraduate

Supervisors: Alison de Lima Greene, Isabel Brown Wilson Curator, Department of Modern and Contemporary Art

Department: Curatorial

Dates of Internship: Summer Schedule: June 2 – August 22, 2025

Deadline for applications: April 25, 2025

Position Overview:

The Undergraduate Internship with the Modern & Contemporary Department at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, offers a unique opportunity for college students to gain first-hand professional experience with a curatorial team. Over the summer of 2025, this internship will contribute to an in-depth review of the Museum’s permanent collection in preparation for upcoming installations in the Kinder Building galleries and selected projects elsewhere on the larger campus.

The internship will focus on the role of a permanent collection as a community resource, emphasizing best scholarly practices and object-based learning. Participants will gain exposure to research methodologies, public engagement, and the evolving field of art history, which increasingly includes diverse fields of study and perspectives.

As part of this learning experience, interns will participate in the department’s daily activities, such as responding to requests from visiting scholars and the public, updating information on the collection website, and interfacing with other museum departments and with the larger internship cohort. Included will be opportunities to undertake field trips to notable art galleries, artists’ studios, and alternative spaces, offering a broader view of Houston’s dynamic art scene.

This paid internship is generously supported by the Association of Art Museum Directors (AAMD), encouraging undergraduate students to pursue a career in art museums. The AAMD believes that adding a myriad of voices to the field helps to foster excellence in art museums. While the internship program encourages students who are part of groups underrepresented in art museums to apply - which may include groups such as socioeconomic status, cultural background, physical or other disability, and/or life experiences that add diverse perspectives - eligible candidates from all backgrounds can apply for consideration and will be evaluated equally.

Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:

• Strong research and writing skills.
• Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Dependable and punctual.

Education and Eligibility:

This internship is open to undergraduate students who have completed at least two years of college with a focus on art history or a related subject, or those who have recently completed (within one year) their undergraduate degree.

Anticipated Schedule:

The internship will comprise 420 hours of work (35 hours per week for 12 weeks), running from June 2 to August 22, 2025. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (with an hour-long lunch).

This position requires on-site attendance, and cannot be undertaken remotely.

Fellowship Stipend:

$18/Hour ($7560)

Application Requirements:

To apply, please submit the following materials:

1. Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV): Highlighting relevant experience, education, and skills.
2. Cover Letter: Explaining your interest in the Modern & Contemporary Department internship and how it aligns with your academic and professional goals.
3. Writing Sample: Approximately 1,000 words, demonstrating research and analytical skills.
4. College transcript
5. References: Contact information for two academic or professional references.