Curatorial Intern

Edmundson Art Foundation dba Des Moines Art Center • Des Moines, IA

1d • $20 - $27 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Curatorial Intern at the Des Moines Art Center will assist with research and development of exhibition and collection installations and gain generalized experience in the operation of a Curatorial department. This internship will span approximately 200-300 hours in 2026, beginning the week of August 3, 2026, with the general expectation of 10-20 hours worked per week. The chosen candidate must have the ability to complete most of this work on site, but there are some duties that may be conducted remotely. Internship start and end dates will be determined by the intern in conjunction with the museum's Senior Curator. If the selected candidate is also a student, the Art Center will work with their College or University to help obtain class credit.

Requirements

• Strong research and writing skills
• Interest in art history, with a particular focus on the 20th century and/or feminist art
• Bachelor's or advanced degree in English or Art History. Other equivalent practical experience will be considered and must include a strong background in research and writing.
• Current undergraduate or graduate students will be considered.
• Excellent writing skills, in both short- and long-form.
• Excellent organization, communication, and computer skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office programs, especially Excel, Outlook, and Word.
• A demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively, as different situations require
• Professionalism in working with staff, colleagues, and peers

Responsibilities

• Researching archive files for multiple objects in the Art Center's collection for pertinent materials
• Digitizing and organizing relevant information to create an internal information database for museum staff
• Drafting labels, web texts, alt text, and other didactic for objects in the exhibition
• Assisting Curatorial, Museum Learning and Engagement, Communications and Marketing, and Development staff on various preparatory projects exhibitions
• Other Curatorial requirements as assigned
• Acts in ways that reflect favorably on the Art Center and maintains professional standards in the quality of performance and demonstration of concern for the Art Center's collection, programs, and facilities.
• Adheres to and champions the Des Moines Art Center Code of Ethics, Employee Handbook, and all other organizational policies.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Intern