15.3 Internships, Residencies, and Fellowship Opportunities

Internships, residencies, and fellowships are crucial stepping stones in the curatorial world. These opportunities provide hands-on experience, dedicated research time, and professional growth, helping aspiring curators build skills, networks, and portfolios.

These experiences can lead to career advancement and higher positions in museums, galleries, and cultural institutions. By participating in these programs, curators demonstrate their commitment to excellence and continuous learning in the field.

Curatorial Programs

Internships

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  20 Years at the Getty Center: A Getty Foundation Perspective | Getty Iris View original

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• 

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  Multicultural Undergraduate Intern Diary: Kevin Cruz | Getty Iris View original

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• Internships are typically short-term, supervised work experiences that provide hands-on training and exposure to the curatorial field
• Can be paid or unpaid and are often aimed at students or recent graduates
• Opportunities can be found at a variety of institutions, including museums (Metropolitan Museum of Art), galleries (Gagosian Gallery), archives (Smithsonian Institution Archives), libraries (New York Public Library), and cultural organizations (UNESCO), each offering unique experiences and areas of focus

Residencies and Fellowships

• Residencies are programs that provide curators with dedicated time, space, and resources to focus on a specific project or area of research
• Can range from a few weeks to several months and may include stipends, housing, and other support (Fulbright Scholarship)
• Fellowships are competitive, merit-based awards that support advanced study, research, or professional development in the curatorial field
• Often provide funding, mentorship, and access to institutional resources for an extended period, typically a year or more (Getty Foundation Curatorial Fellowship)
• Many professional associations, such as the Association of Art Museum Curators (AAMC) and the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), maintain lists of available internships, residencies, and fellowships

Benefits and Expectations

Professional Growth and Skill Development

• Internships provide valuable hands-on experience, allowing participants to apply academic knowledge to real-world situations and gain practical skills in the curatorial field
• Residencies offer dedicated time and resources for curators to pursue in-depth research, develop new projects, or explore innovative ideas without the distractions of daily responsibilities
• Fellowships support advanced study and professional development, enabling curators to acquire specialized knowledge, conduct original research, and build networks within the field
• Participating in these programs can lead to increased visibility, professional recognition, and opportunities for collaboration and mentorship

Expectations and Requirements

• Expectations for participants may include completing specific projects, engaging in research or public programming, and contributing to the host institution's mission and goals
• Participants are often required to provide regular updates, submit final reports, or present their work to colleagues and stakeholders
• Develop a plan for making the most of the experience, setting clear goals and objectives for learning, skill development, and networking
• Actively engage with colleagues, mentors, and other professionals during the program, seeking opportunities for collaboration, feedback, and knowledge exchange

Securing and Maximizing Experiences

Application Process

• Research and identify opportunities that align with your interests, skills, and career goals, considering factors such as the institution's focus, program duration, and location
• Prepare a strong application package, including a tailored resume or CV, a compelling personal statement, and relevant work samples or research proposals
• Seek guidance and recommendations from mentors, professors, or professionals in the field who can provide insights and support throughout the application process

Documenting and Leveraging Experiences

• Document your experience through a portfolio, blog, or other means to showcase your work and reflect on your growth and achievements
• Maintain relationships with contacts made during the program, as they can serve as valuable resources and references for future opportunities
• Leverage the skills, knowledge, and networks gained through these experiences to pursue new opportunities and advance your career in the curatorial field

Career Advancement and Development

Building a Strong Foundation

• Internships, residencies, and fellowships provide valuable opportunities to gain practical experience, develop specialized skills, and build a professional network, all of which are essential for career advancement in the curatorial field
• Participating in these programs can help curators develop a strong portfolio of work, demonstrating their ability to conceptualize, research, and execute curatorial projects
• The connections and relationships formed during these experiences can lead to future job opportunities, collaborations, and professional references

Pathway to Higher Positions

• The prestige and recognition associated with certain programs, particularly competitive fellowships (Guggenheim Fellowship), can enhance a curator's professional reputation and credibility within the field
• These experiences can also serve as stepping stones to higher-level positions, such as assistant curator, associate curator, or curator, by providing the necessary skills, knowledge, and exposure to advance in the field
• Engaging in continuous learning and professional development through internships, residencies, and fellowships demonstrates a commitment to growth and excellence, which is highly valued in the curatorial profession