The Smithsonian Associates Studio Arts Classroom Internship
Smithsonian Associates advances the Smithsonian Institution’s mission: the increase and diffusion of knowledge through life-enriching educational and cultural experiences inspired by the Smithsonian’s research and collections for DC-region students, families, and adults, and for learning communities nationwide.
Internship Duties:
- Managing Logistics for each session
- Coordinating room set-up and materials needed for each class
- Assisting course instructors during each session
Learning Objectives:
- Hands-on participation while overseeing studio art classes
- Observe professional art instructors and learn different teaching techniques in a wide variety of art media
- Experience constructive interactions with artists and museum professionals; networking opportunities
- Improve communication skills while working with the public
- Learning different art education methods from observing course instructors
Desired Intern Qualifications:
- Knowledge of and/or interest in the visual arts and continuing educational programming in a museum setting
- Ability to interact well with many different types of people while maintaining a professional demeanor
- Reliable and able to work independently
- Strong oral communication skills
Timetable: Applicant can choose from three different time frames: Fall: October - December, Winter: January - March, Spring: April - June. To be considered in the first round of applications, submit your materials by the following dates:
Fall Internship: July 1
Winter Internship: October 1
Spring Internship: December 1
Applications received after these dates are considered on an as-needed basis.
Time Commitment: Approximately 20 hours per week, depending on class times and availability. Ideally, the intern oversees 4–5 classes that generally meet for 8 weeks each. Schedule varies according to course offerings (a mixture of weekday mornings, afternoons, and possibly evenings/weekends). This position allows schedule flexibility.
Intern Mentor: Jenna Jones, CVA - Volunteer Coordinator for Smithsonian Associates
Internship are unpaid and housing is not provided. College credit may be granted, but must be coordinated in advance with the intern’s university/college.
Location: S. Dillon Ripley Center, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C.
To Apply: Complete the online application here. For questions, contact TSAInternships@si.edu or (202) 633-8631.