Best Internships for Art History Students
As an art history student, it's essential to gain hands-on experience and make connections in the industry. One of the best ways to do this is by securing an internship. Not only is it a chance to develop practical skills, but it can also lead to future job opportunities. In this article, we'll delve into the different types of internships available for art history students and highlight some of the top programs in the industry.
Why Internships are Important for Art History Students
As an art history student, you may be wondering why internships are so important. While you may have a strong academic background, internships provide practical experience, networking opportunities, and can help you discover your career path. In this article, we'll explore these benefits in more detail.
Gaining Practical Experience
One of the most significant benefits of internships is gaining practical experience in your field. While you may learn about art history in the classroom, working alongside professionals will give you a better understanding of the day-to-day operations of the industry. You'll have the opportunity to apply what you've learned in the classroom to real-world situations and gain valuable skills that you may not learn otherwise.
For example, you may have learned about different art movements in class, but working in an art gallery or museum will give you a better understanding of how these movements are presented to the public. You'll also learn about the inner workings of these institutions, such as how exhibitions are planned and how art is acquired.
Networking Opportunities
Internships are also an excellent opportunity to network and make connections in your industry. By working alongside professionals and attending industry events, you'll have the chance to build relationships with people who may be able to help you land a job after graduation. These connections can also provide you with industry insights and advice that you can't find elsewhere.
For example, you may meet a curator who can give you advice on how to prepare your resume for a job in a museum. Or, you may meet an art dealer who can give you insight into the art market and how to succeed in that field.
Building Your Resume
An internship is a fantastic addition to your resume that can set you apart from other job candidates. Employers appreciate candidates who have practical experience and have demonstrated their ability to work in a professional environment. As an art history student, know that the industry is competitive, and internships can make a significant impact when you start applying for jobs.
Internships can also help you develop skills that are highly valued in the industry, such as attention to detail, organization, and communication skills. These skills will not only help you in your future career but also in other areas of your life.
Discovering Your Career Path
Another benefit of internships is that they can help you determine your career path. By working in different areas of the industry, you'll have the chance to explore your interests and discover what type of work you enjoy most. This can be especially helpful if you're unsure which direction you want to take after graduation.
For example, you may start your internship thinking that you want to work in a museum, but after working in an art gallery, you realize that you prefer the commercial side of the industry. Or, you may discover that you enjoy working with children and want to pursue a career in art education.
Conclusion
In conclusion, internships are an essential part of the art history student's education. They provide practical experience, networking opportunities, and can help you discover your career path. If you're considering an internship, be sure to research different opportunities and apply early, as internships can be competitive. Good luck!
Types of Internships for Art History Students
Art history students have a variety of internship options available to them, ranging from museum and gallery internships to art conservation and restoration internships. Here are some additional details about each type of internship:
Museum and Gallery Internships
Working in museums and galleries is one of the most common types of internships for art history students. These internships give you the opportunity to work alongside curators and other professionals in the industry. You may be responsible for tasks like exhibition planning, research, or even providing guided tours for visitors.
During your internship, you'll gain hands-on experience working with artwork and artifacts, as well as learning about the inner workings of a museum or gallery. You'll also have the opportunity to network with professionals in the field, which can be helpful when it comes time to look for a job after graduation.
Art Conservation and Restoration Internships
If you're interested in the technical side of art, you should consider applying for an art conservation and restoration internship. In these programs, you'll learn about the scientific methods used to preserve and restore artwork. These internships are ideal if you're interested in working in museums or galleries or pursuing a career in restoration.
During your internship, you'll work with conservators and restorers to learn about the materials and techniques used to preserve and repair artwork. You may also have the opportunity to work on a restoration project, which can be a highly rewarding experience.
Art Auction House Internships
Art auction house internships can be highly competitive but provide an amazing experience if you are able to land one. These types of internships will allow you to learn about the sale of art from a business perspective. You may be responsible for cataloging artwork or assisting with auction events. These internships are a great option if you're interested in pursuing a career in art sales or auction houses.
During your internship, you'll learn about the art market and how auctions work. You may also have the opportunity to attend auctions and assist with the bidding process. This can be a great way to gain experience in the art sales industry and make valuable connections.
Art Education and Community Outreach Internships
Another fantastic area to explore through internships is art education and community outreach. These internships focus on bringing art to the community and can teach you valuable skills in communication, event planning, and education. You may be responsible for coordinating classes, workshops, and outreach efforts to schools and community organizations.
During your internship, you'll work with educators and community leaders to develop and implement art programs. You may also have the opportunity to work with students and community members directly, teaching them about art and helping them develop their own artistic skills.
Art Publications and Media Internships
If you're interested in the marketing and media side of the art industry, you should consider applying for an art publications and media internship. These programs provide you with the opportunity to work for art magazines and websites, where you'll be responsible for writing, editing, and publishing content related to the art world. This can include features on artists, reviews of exhibitions, and coverage of industry events.
During your internship, you'll learn about the art publishing industry and gain valuable experience in writing and editing. You may also have the opportunity to attend art events and interview artists and industry professionals. This can be a great way to build your portfolio and make connections in the art world.
Top Internships for Art History Students
The Metropolitan Museum of Art Internship Program
The Metropolitan Museum of Art offers a wide range of internship opportunities for art history students. They offer both paid and unpaid positions in areas like curatorial research, conservation, collections management, and education. This is an excellent program to apply to if you're interested in working in a museum or gallery.
The Smithsonian Institution Internship Program
The Smithsonian Institution offers internships at museums and research centers throughout the United States. These internships provide students with hands-on experience working in areas like history, culture, and the arts. The program is highly competitive, but if you're accepted, it's an incredible experience that will provide you with valuable skills and connections in the industry.
The Getty Foundation's Multicultural Undergraduate Internship
The Getty Foundation's Multicultural Undergraduate Internship program is designed to increase diversity in the arts and provide opportunities for underrepresented groups in the industry. The program offers paid internships in areas like art history, conservation, and administration. This program is an excellent option if you're looking to gain experience in the art industry while also working to promote diversity and inclusion.
The Guggenheim Museum Internship Program
The Guggenheim Museum Internship Program provides students with the opportunity to work alongside professionals in areas like exhibition planning, collections management, and education. The program is highly competitive but offers a fantastic experience for art history students interested in working in museums or galleries.
Christie's and Sotheby's Art Auction House Internships
Both Christie's and Sotheby's offer highly competitive internship programs for art history students interested in the business side of the industry. These internships provide students with the opportunity to learn about the art market and gain experience working in areas like cataloging and sales.
Conclusion
Securing an internship is an excellent way to gain practical experience, make connections, and prepare for your future career. Whether you're interested in working in museums, galleries, or the business side of the industry, there are internship opportunities available for art history students. By applying to one of the top programs highlighted in this article, you'll be on your way to developing the skills and experiences you need for a successful career in the arts.