Spring 2027 Curatorial Intern

studiomuseumcareers; New York (NY); On-site; USD 16,000 - 17,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stipend $5,040

Job summary

The Studio Museum in Harlem invites undergraduates and graduates to join its Curatorial Internship in New York. Interns will conduct research and write about objects and artists from the permanent collection, while supporting administrative tasks for the curatorial library and related exhibitions.

The program emphasizes independent work, strong writing, and exposure to global exhibitions within a museum setting in Harlem.

Qualifications

• Excellent writing and research abilities are essential.
• Interest in curatorial work and the contemporary art world is expected.
• Ability to manage multiple projects independently.

Responsibilities

• Participate in curatorial research projects for the museum.
• Conduct research and write about objects and artists in the permanent collection.
• Provide administrative support for the department’s curatorial library.
• Contribute to research on mission-related exhibitions happening globally.

Skills

Writing skills

Research skills

Art world knowledge

Education

Undergraduate student

Graduate student

Job description

About Our Organization

Founded in 1968, the Studio Museum in Harlem is the nexus for artists of African descent locally, nationally, and internationally and for work that has been inspired and influenced by Black culture. It is a site for the dynamic exchange of ideas about art and society.

Internship Program Description

The Museum’s Internship Program offers college undergraduates, graduate students, and recent graduates' valuable insights into the operations of a professional museum environment. Interns collaborate on meaningful and engaging projects with museum staff and participate in a series of meetings and workshops focused on contemporary museology.

*Please note: Only individuals who are authorized to work in the United States are eligible for this program.*

Job Summary

The Curatorial Intern will work under the direction of the Curatorial Assistants. Interns will be involved in a range of curatorial research projects. A key component of this internship will be conducting research and writing for objects and artists represented in the permanent collection, as well as administrative tasks to support the department’s curatorial library. Projects will also include deep research on mission specific-related exhibitions happening globally. The intern may also be completing administrative tasks for exhibition-related projects. The Curatorial Internship position is designed for undergraduate and graduate students who are majoring/minoring in art history, visual culture, or a related field. Applicants should be interested in curatorial work and have excellent writing and research skills and knowledge of the contemporary art world. Applicants must be able to handle multiple projects at once and work independently.

Dates and Details

Spring 2027 Program Dates: January 11, 2027 – April 16, 2027 (14-weeks)

Requirements: 20 hours/week, during the workweek (M-F). Interns must work in-person three days of the week, with Tuesdays mandatory for interns.

Stipend: $5,040

Application Opens: October 5th, 2026

Application Deadline: 11:59 PM on November 6, 2026

Applicants will be notified about interviews by December 4, 2026

• If you have not heard back before the set date, you have not been considered as a finalist for the Spring 2027 cohort.

All interns must attend an in-person orientation day the morning of January 11, 2027, to commence their program.

The Studio Museum in Harlem is an equal opportunity employer and considers all candidates for employment regardless of race, color, sex, age, gender identification, national origin, creed, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or political affiliation. We celebrate our inclusive work environment and encourage folks of all backgrounds and perspectives to apply. At the Studio Museum, we are committed to having an inclusive and transparent environment where every voice is heard and acknowledged. We embrace our differences, and know that our diverse team is a strength that drives our success.

Research shows that women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that an applicant meets 100% of the qualifications for a given role. Therefore, if much of this job description describes you, then you are highly encouraged to apply for this role.