In considering an internship at the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, applicants should indicate their preference as to the department that relates to their career goals. Interns will work on specific projects as well as receive a general overview of the department's function in the operation of the institution. An internship is an opportunity to do real, professional work alongside staff members who have made a commitment to assist the intern in their learning.
Internship projects and requirements will vary within the different departments of the Museum. It is important to ensure that both the intern and the Museum have clearly defined what the responsibilities will be and how the performance will be evaluated. A formal internship agreement will be provided by the Museum. Paperwork made available by the college or university for student academic credit will be reviewed and adhered to as possible.
Administration
Opportunities are available to contribute to the management of the museum, including work with the human resources, information services, and finance departments; placement based on qualifying candidate's background.
Curatorial and/or Research Center
Opportunities to work on aspects of organizing and installing exhibitions and other projects organized by curatorial or the Research Center. Projects are available that involve organizing correspondence, art, and archival materials in the collections of the Museum and Research Center, and research in areas identified by the Curator/Research Center Director to meet the immediate and long-range needs and goals of the Museum and its Research Center.
Qualifications: Ability to work and conduct research independently; familiarity with computers and database management programs; strong administrative, public relations skills, and the ability to work as a team player.
Development/Fundraising
Learn how to fundraise in a comprehensive development office and participate in its day to day activities. Individuals with an interest in research, data base management, and special events will find ample opportunities to further develop their knowledge and skills in these areas. Tasks will include telephoning, utilization of in-house research resources, maintaining accurate and detailed information and files, computer work (including Internet use), assist with correspondence, mailings, and related requests. Requirements include the ability to work with confidential information and a computer background (Windows NT 4.0; Word and Excel). Schedule: flexible during normal business hours.
Education
Teach hands-on art/art history lessons that relate to exhibitions to school and youth groups and families. Intern may develop and contribute lessons to the Museum's multi-disciplinary curriculum. Assist with preparation and presentation of Museum's education programs which include: adult learning programs, family programs, youth programs, school and teacher programs, music program, lecture series, statewide outreach programs, docent program, education annex exhibitions, and dart and leadership programs. Candidate should have a background in studio art with knowledge of related art history, and/or education/museum education.
For Art and Leadership program internships, see Paid Internships. (Link to paid internships)
Research Center Library
Projects include making and/or ordering phase boxes and pamphlet binders for library materials, preparing books and serials for binding, and searching authority records for the vertical files. Candidates should have a strong interest in library and art documentation processes. Must be detail-oriented and computer literate. Candidates must also have manual dexterity.
Marketing
Assist the Museum in implementing the annual marketing plan; develop and edit the Museum's monthly newsletter and publications, assist in coordinating and implementing special promotions. Some clerical responsibilities may be required.
Public Relations
Work with the Public Relations department on public and media relations activities for all aspects of the Museum. Internship includes contact with the members of the press, writing calendar listings and media alerts, preparation of press materials and related office duties.
Retail Services
Intern will assist Retail Services Department in all areas of operations to include Museum Shop sales, stock and merchandising as well as shipping and receiving. Assist in maintaining product inventories and ordering. Tasks will also include helping with e-commerce, wholesale and mail order sales. Candidates need retail/customer service experience, with computer skills and a business background. Must be flexible and be able to work in fast paced environment.
Unless otherwise noted, internships at the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum are volunteer positions. Housing needs are the responsibility of the individual.
Application Process:
Applications are taken year round. Submit application a minimum of 10 weeks prior to start date. Prospective candidates are first interviewed by the director of education then by the supervising department head. Positions are limited and competitive. Interested candidates should submit the following information for review by staff a minimum of 8 weeks prior to their desired arrival date:
Resume
- A personal letter stating reasons for wanting to be an intern at GOKM including goals; what the intern hopes to achieve from the experience; how the internship relates to career plans; what he/she believe they can contribute to the Museum; personal information including interests and abilities
- Specific information including: dates available to work; number of hours per week; if doing this for University credit, supply school requirements and advisor's name.
- Two letters of recommendation- at least one from a college professor. Reference letters should answer the following questions: