Art 496: Museum Guide Internship
Fall Term
Meeting Time: TH 5-8 PM
Location: Henry Art Gallery
Instructor: TBD
The first quarter of a three-part, paid internship program ($16/hr), this course introduces selected students to the work of contemporary art interpretation and community engagement within the museum setting. Building on the idea that everyone’s life and learning can be enriched through dialogue with contemporary art practices, students in this program will receive mentorship and training to eventually lead dynamic and community-centered tours of the museum’s exhibitions for school and student groups, families, and the general public. Enjoining classroom study with professional development opportunities, students will investigate and practice strategies in visitor engagement and museum education, exploring both general issues related to art interpretation and education, as well as specific applications to current exhibitions. Weekly meetings with the program lead will include group sessions with exhibition, collections, and program curators, as well as one-on-one advising.
Gallery training and tours: In addition to weekly class meetings, interns are expected to commit to an additional three hours each week for tour preparation and practice and other onsite, course-related activities.
A maximum of 10 students will be admitted to this program. Students in all majors are encouraged to apply. Please email your letter of interest, résumé (may include past and current coursework), and list of 3 faculty or professional references to contact-programs@henryart.org by July 31st. This course credit is eligible for fulfilling VLPA requirements.
