Education Access Programs and Initiatives Internship null

About Whitney Museum

The Whitney Museum of American Art is a prominent institution founded by Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney in 1930, renowned for its collection and exhibition of 20th and 21st-century American art. They curate, preserve, and showcase innovative artworks, serving as a vibrant hub for exploring the diversity and evolution of American artistic expression.

Your role

Internship program overview

The Whitney’s Academic Year Internship program offers a semester-long paid internship for undergraduate and graduate students currently enrolled in an accredited academic program. The internship is hybrid, with some onsite work. For Fall 2024, interns commit between 16–21 hours per week over 10–12 weeks for a total of 200 hours. Interns are assigned to a specific department at the Museum for the duration of the internship.

The Whitney seeks an Access Programs and Initiatives intern for the Fall 2024 semester.

The Whitney’s Access Programs and Initiatives division builds pathways for disabled visitors to engage with the richness and complexity of American art. Through programs and accessible design initiatives, they work to build sustained connections to various disability communities. The work of the Access division is driven by collaboration between Whitney staff, freelance educators, and access workers.

Expected Projects & Assignments

• Preparing accessible materials including transcripts, large print guides, and closed-captioning.
• Developing alt-text for Whitney’s online collection.
• Providing support for virtual programs and in-person events.
• Assisting with access programs by preparing presentation materials for freelance educators.
• Researching and creating touch objects for programs for people who are blind or have low vision, Verbal Description and Touch Tours.
• Supporting set up and break down for ASL programs, Whitney Signs.
• Preparing resources for Whitney staff on accessibility in the Museum.
• Occasionally assisting with programs on weekends and/or evenings.

Training & development

Provided Training

• Microsoft Office Suite, Outlook.
• Opportunities to observe tours.
• Opportunities to observe and support access and community programming such as guided visits and artist workshops.

Outcomes

• The intern will gain knowledge of how to produce educational programming at a cultural institution.
• Understand how to access accommodations for people with disabilities.
• Learn about accessible and disability-centered programming.

Salary & benefits

Interns will be paid a stipend of $3000.

If you join as a full-time employee, you will get the following benefits:

• Health insurance coverage
• Generous paid time off
• 403(b) retirement plan
• Free admission to many museums in New York City and nationally

Career progression

Interns at the Whitney have the opportunity to explore various departments and roles related to exhibitions, programs, administration, and visitor services, gaining valuable skills and knowledge. As they demonstrate their abilities and interests, interns are encouraged to apply for full- or part-time positions that align with their career aspirations and experiences within the museum.

Work-life balance

Whitney's Academic Year Internship program mandates a commitment of 16–21 hours per week over 10–12 weeks, totalling 200 hours, ensuring interns gain valuable experience while accommodating academic schedules and personal commitments.

Culture & vibe

The Whitney fosters a culture of inclusivity and diversity, valuing the unique perspectives and contributions of all individuals. With a commitment to equity and belonging, they cultivate an environment where every voice is heard, celebrated, and empowered to shape their collective mission of showcasing American art in its fullest and most representative context.

About you

Skills & Qualifications

• Passionate about and have some knowledge of contemporary art and social movements (i.e. disability justice)
• Currently enrolled in or recently graduated with a degree in education, museum studies, disability studies, studio art, art history, or a related field.
• Proficiency in Spanish or ASL is a plus.
• Undergraduates and graduates currently enrolled in accredited academic year programs are eligible.
• Applicants must have completed a minimum of one year’s worth of academic coursework; undergraduate freshmen are not eligible.
• While a demonstrated interest in art and art history is preferred, students in all majors are encouraged to apply.
• Previous museum experience is not required.

Source

The following sources were used in researching this page:

• whitney.org/about
• whitney.org/about/job-postings
• youtube.com/user/WhitneyFocus