Education Internship
Using Chinati’s unique collection as a springboard for diverse projects, our education program emphasizes exploration, experimentation, and play. We primarily serve the schools and communities of the Big Bend region. Students visit exhibitions, create artwork at the museum’s Art Lab, engage with artists, and may explore the region’s unique high desert environment. Programming and access to the collection is free to all schools, educational groups, and children.
Internship Description
Education interns assist education staff with school and adult programs, public tours of the collection, special events, and other initiatives that support the art and vision of Chinati.
Interns live and work amidst the permanent collection and are provided with valuable resources and training toward future endeavors in arts education and public programs. Participants gain direct experience in: teaching concepts of art and art making to pre-k through 12th-grade student groups; preparing educational materials for youth and adult programs; writing curriculum; guiding field trips; working with local educators; and carrying out general office duties.
In addition, education interns are exposed to a variety of studio practices such as screen printing, pinhole photography, concrete and plaster casting, graphic design, and more. The education internship does involve a degree of physical labor, assisting education staff in cleaning studio spaces, moving and organizing art materials, and setting up for special events. Such work is occasionally carried out in cold weather or very high heat.
Requisite skills and experience
Education interns are inquisitive, collaborative, and driven individuals who are eager to share their love of learning with students. Intern candidates are not required to have previous work or educational experience in the arts, though an interest in arts education is crucial. Moreover, candidates generally demonstrate enthusiasm for working with K-12 youth and exploring diverse approaches to teaching and learning. Experience working in a role interacting with the public is also a plus. We welcome applicants with some college level coursework, associate or bachelor’s degrees, or equivalent work experience.
Mentorship
Interns receive professional mentorship from Director of Education Michael Roch. The mentorship program includes introductions to local arts professionals, artists, and organizations; networking events; department specific skills days; intern lunches and field trips; and more.
Compensation and housing
Internships last five to six months. Interns are expected to work approximately 40 hours per week at a rate of $15 per hour, provided free housing on the museum grounds, and offered medical benefits. Interns are also provided a bicycle. A personal cell phone is required. If needed, transport to and from the El Paso or Midland/Odessa airports is available.
Apply
Education internships are offered in the spring, from February to July, and fall, from September to
January. Applications for both sessions of the 2024 internships open September 1, 2023 and close November 15, 2023. To apply, please follow the instructions on this form. Please direct questions to internships@chinati.org.
Individuals from backgrounds that are underrepresented in the arts and DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival) recipients are encouraged to apply.
Learn More
To learn more about Chinati internships, please click here.
To learn more about Chinati’s education department, its programs and approach to art education, please click here.