Interpretive Guides

Listen to Interpretive Guides discuss their experience with the program.

Interpretive Guides

contact: marucak@si.edu, Kristy Maruca, Interpretive Programs Coordinator

interpretive guides
•    Facilitate in-gallery, one-on-one conversations with visitors on the collection and special exhibitions
•    Rotate through a set of duties and tasks related to museum education, visitor services, and curatorial research
•    Gain skills related to arts and museum programming
•    Participate in a five week training on an upcoming special exhibition and museum education techniques

Click here to listen to Interpretive Guides discuss their experience with the program.

qualifications
•    Upper-level undergraduates, recent graduates and graduate students
•    Strong background in modern and contemporary art history, especially from 1945 to the present
•    Good academic standing from studio art, writing, and education programs are strongly encouraged to apply
•    Interest in pursuing careers in the arts and museum field
•    Research, writing, organizational skills
•    Exceptional public speaking and communication skills and interpersonal sensitivity


academic year and summer internships
•    Six part time positions available per academic semester
•    Two full time and four part time positions are available in the summer

Stipends and Application Process

 

part-time stipend
During the academic year the Hirshhorn provides funding for two graduate students or recent graduates. Please indicate on your application if you wish to apply for this internship stipend. Stipend awards are $1500 for a part time, 20 hour/week commitment.

full-time stipend
The museum offers summer internship funding for two outstanding candidates who have demonstrated a commitment to museum careers. Please indicate on your application if you wish to apply for this internship stipend.  Interns are paid $3000 for nine weeks of a full time, 40 hour/week commitment.

The internship is open to all U.S. citizens but we highly encourage applications from African-American, Alaskan Native, American Indian, Asian American, Hispanic, Middle Eastern and Pacific Islander candidates.

apply
•    Email application materials to marucak@si.edu with subject: LastName_IG (ex. Maruca_IG)
•    Application materials must include: cover letter, resume, academic writing sample, unofficial or official academic transcript, two letters of recommendation (can be emailed separately by reference)
•    Applicants will be notified within five weeks after application deadline.


deadlines
•    Fall: July 15th (Anne Truitt exhibition)
•    Spring: November 15th (Hirshhorn Collection)
•    Summer: February 15th (Yves Klein exhibition)