Internship: Performance

The Performance Intern will have the opportunity to learn about how performances and programs are selected, created, and contextualized; what goes into producing events and working with artists and speakers; and how a curatorial department interfaces with other departments in a museum context. In this role, expect to:

• Assist with administrative tasks toward the production of summer performances and programs and planning towards fall and spring projects

• Execute logistical tasks, errands, and support artist hospitality before and during events

• Conduct exploratory research on artists and performance works 

• Draft, review, and compile project-related texts

• Develop an understanding of the administrative operations of a curatorial department by assisting with budgets, schedules, contracts, and travel arrangements.

• Work with members from other departments to understand how the curators collaborate across the Museum on exhibitions, committee meetings, and other projects.

• Participate in departmental meetings and MCA staff events.

• MCA Internships are geared towards current college students and recent graduates ( <1 year ) who are interested in contemporary art and have a passion for learning more about how museums work.
• Candidates must be interested in exploring a potential career in the cultural sector.
• Interns must be able to work up to 24 hours per week onsite for the entirety of the internship period.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office, demonstrate excellent communication skills (both verbal and written), organized, and able to manage assignments with attention to detail. 
• Ability to perform occasional light lifting.

• Gain exposure to the overall workings of a museum through information sessions with key museum leaders.
• Play an integral role in the growth and success of MCA programs.
• Gain a breadth of professional experiences.
• Complete a specific target project and daily assignments.
• Participate in departmental meetings and MCA staff events.
• Engage in weekly check-in sessions with their supervisor.

This internship opportunity begins 8/12/2024 and ends 5/16/2025. To apply, please submit a resume, a writing sample, and include your availability in your cover letter. Must be able to communicate fluently in English. Ability to operate computers, printers, and telephones is required. General mobility throughout the building, light lifting, and ability to stand for extended periods of time as scheduled is required. The hourly rate for this role is $17.00. The submission deadline is 6/23/2024.

Interested? APPLY NOW https://mcachicago.org/About/Employment

P.S. The MCA provides great benefits to part-time staff that include: visiting the MCA’s galleries, curator led staff tours of MCA exhibitions, discounts at the MCA Store and MCA restaurant Marisol, discounts for MCA Stage and other programs, plus a wide variety of discounts at many cultural institutions in the Chicagoland area.