The Position
MCA Denver offers a Curatorial Internship for creative, hardworking, and reliable undergraduate students or recent graduates interested in a museum career. This internship focuses on engaging students from underrepresented cultural backgrounds in the arts. The aim is to introduce students to the curatorial field, assign specific projects related to the museum’s vision, and provide mentorship from senior museum staff. This is a 12-week paid internship, requiring 16 hours per week, with at least two full weekdays on-site, including some nights and weekends.
Eligibility Criteria
- Identify with an underrepresented group in museums and visual arts leadership (e.g., LGBTQIA, BIPOC, Latinx, Asian-American).
- Pursuing or holding a degree in art history or museum studies, or demonstrate strong interest and knowledge in art history, contemporary art, and museum work.
- Interested in a career as a curator, critic, or scholar.
- Special interest or background in performance and time-based art.
- Based in Colorado and able to commute to MCA Denver at least two weekdays per week.
- Experienced in art historical research tools, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple projects.
- Commit to 16 hours per week for the 12-week duration, including some nights and weekends for exhibition-related programs.
Daily Responsibilities
Exhibitions
- Support the Exhibitions team with installation and deinstallation.
- Prepare materials for artists and assist during site visits and exhibition programming.
- Develop a special project under the guidance of the Associate Curator.
- Research artists and exhibition-related topics.
- Assist with exhibition catalogue production.
- Network with museum professionals from Denver-based arts organizations.
Collaboration
- Collaborate with the Exhibitions Manager and Coordinator on research for future exhibitions.
- Attend interdepartmental meetings as needed.
- Handle general department administration, including filing and correspondence.
Requirements
- Pursuing or holding a degree in art history or museum studies, or strong interest and knowledge in these fields.
- Strong research background.
Physical Requirements
- Communicate effectively in English, both in person and in writing.
- Ability to sit or stand for up to 6 hours per day, lift up to 25 pounds, and perform various physical tasks.
About MCA Denver
MCA Denver is a nonprofit organization that provides an innovative forum for contemporary art, inspiring and challenging visitors while fostering understanding and dialogue about contemporary art. MCA Denver presents world-class exhibitions and events, welcoming all audiences and celebrating diverse voices.
Core Values
- Adventurous: Creative, open, curious, and risk-taking.
- Excellent: Strive for high standards, resilience, and professionalism.
- Human-Centric: Collaborative, value relationships, and emotional intelligence.
- Inclusive: Welcoming to all audiences and actively engaging diverse perspectives.
Commitment to Equality
MCA Denver is committed to maintaining a nondiscriminatory environment and providing equal opportunities for all individuals. Employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to protected characteristics.
History
Founded in 1996, MCA Denver opened its environmentally sustainable facility in 2007 and expanded with a satellite location at the Holiday Theater in 2021.
For more information, visit MCA Denver.
Application Process
This temporary, non-exempt position pays $18.29 per hour. Submit your application by 11:59 PM on July 14, 2024, including a resume, cover letter, official transcript, writing sample with bibliography, one letter of recommendation, and two references.
