Expected Schedule:

• 40-hours per week, Monday-Friday, typically 8am-5pm, schedule flexible
• On campus; not remote

Project Description:

The intern will work in The Ringling’s Archives. The Archives holds an analog and corresponding digital collection of architectural drawings for each facility on the museum campus. The arrangement and description of these collections need to be brought up to date.

The intern will be responsible for:

• Compiling the analog collection by the building name/ title
• Arranging the analog files for each building in chronological order
• Placing the collection in file drawers, using appropriate archival materials and methods of document storage
• Creating a drawer list indicating the type of document and the content of the document. For example, identifying if the record is a design drawing, construction document, presentation drawing, shop drawing/ submittal for construction phase, or an “as-built” or records drawing of actual conditions.
• Cross referencing the analog records with the digital collection inventory. Working with the archivists to determine what needs to be scanned.

Learning Objectives:

Architectural and design firms create numerous types of documents during the process of design, producing different types of drawings at different stages in the design and construction process. The Museum’s collection of drawings includes both original historical documents and records of subsequent work on the buildings over time. The intended learning outcomes for the intern include the following:

• Working with a specialist in the field of architecture, the intern will gain an understanding of the process of design and construction and the names, context, and purposes of the documents created.
• The intern will learn how to identify the type of architectural document
• The intern will gain knowledge in appropriate archival methods for storage of the documents.
• The intern will learn about appraisal of the documents for retention in the collection
• The intern will gain an understanding of archival document retention strategies, as not all the materials are worthy of permanent retention.
• Materials will be archived to professional archival standards.

Minimum Qualifications/Experience:

• Degree-seeking in bachelor of arts
• Must have the ability to use Adobe Suite products
• Ability to lift at least 15-pounds
• Detail oriented

Preferred Qualifications/Experience:

• An interest in the information sciences

Expected Schedule:

• 40-hours per week; typically Monday-Friday 8ma-5pm
• On campus; not remote

Project Description:

The intern will work in The Ringling’s Collections department. The Collections Department consists of the Registration, Conservation, and Preparation teams. The department is responsible for the accessibility, accountability, utility, and preservation of the Collections.  It is the responsibility of the department to ensure the collections, exhibitions, and loans are documented according to museum standards and to provide information to internal and external stakeholders via manual, electronic, and photographic records. The department installs and de-installs exhibitions and works on protecting and conserving the collections.

This internship experience will serve to provide a broad overview of the collections management field. Opportunities will include:

• Object handling training
• Introduction to records management and cataloging standards
• Participation in the project execution of museum exhibitions
• Additional efforts will be made for interaction with a variety of Collections staff members, tours through current projects at The Ringling Museum, as well as chances to view portions of the collection in a behind-the-scenes capacity.
• The 2023 summer internship will focus primarily on a full inventory of Ca d’Zan, The Ringlings’ winter home, as well as cataloguing and rehousing three-dimensional objects in museum storage spaces.

Learning Objectives:

Interns will:

• Develop an understanding of basic art handling skills for a variety of objects
• Learn the standards of object documentation, cataloging, and storage
• Develop an understanding for data entry, records management, and Collection Management Systems
• Assist in the preparation of artwork for outgoing loan, including handling, packing, and transportation
• Develop an understanding for the basics of framing and matting works on paper for display
• Develop an understanding for the scope of work for exhibition project execution, including assisting in installations, preparing labels and graphics for installation, and the general needs of project planning
• Gain a stronger understanding of the roles and responsibilities of museum collections staff

​​Minimum Qualifications/Experience:

• Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts, with a focus in Art History, History, Museum Studies, or Library Sciences
• Able to communicate effectively verbally and in writing
• Able to follow directions and complete assignments successfully
• Knowledge of applicable computer applications, such as Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Outlook, Word), and basic computer functions
• Able to meet physical requirements as determined by position to include bending/twisting, climbing/descending stairs or ladders, standing and walking for extended periods, handle delicate and fragile works of art, and lift and carry up to 30 lbs

Preferred Qualifications/Experience:

• Currently enrolled in, or a recent graduate of, a related graduate program of Fine Art, Art History, History, Museum Studies, or Library Sciences
• Academic and/or professional experience in museum Collections work
• Experience using collections software (such as TMS)
• Superior attention to detail
• Knowledge of office practices, procedures, and etiquette
• Ability to prioritize, organize and perform multiple work assignments simultaneously

Expected Schedule:

• 40-hours per week, flexible; typically Monday-Friday 8am-5pm
  On campus; not remote

Project Description:

The intern will work directly with one or more of the Ringling’s six collections curators. The intern will accomplish the following:

• Depending on candidate strengths, interns will be tasked with collection and exhibition research, preparing object checklists, cataloging, writing didactic materials such as exhibition labels, and preparing gallery talks.
• They will have the opportunity to attend meetings with curatorial staff and other departments as appropriate.

Learning Objectives:

Interns will learn:

• Various responsibilities of art museum curators
• How departments collaborate to create exhibitions and manage collections
• Gain awareness of the considerations and processes of planning exhibitions and presenting works of art
• Gain experience in writing for and speaking to different audiences.

Minimum Qualifications/Experience:

• A master’s degree in Art History or related discipline specializing in an area relevant to The Ringling’s collections (Link to Collections: https://emuseum.ringling.org/emuseum/collections)
• Proficiency with Microsoft and Adobe software

Preferred Qualifications/Experience:

• Experience using collections software (such as TMS)
• Reading proficiency in language/s other than English

Additional Application Materials:

• IN ADDITION TO a relevant cover letter, resume, and transcripts, include an academic writing sample (3–5 pages; this could be a term paper or a publication on a relevant topic)

Expected Schedule:

• 40-hours per week, flexible; must be able to work some Saturdays
  On campus; not remote

Project Description:

The intern will work in The Ringling’s Education Department and focus on family programming. The intern will complete the following tasks:

• Develop and implement public programming for ROAR! (early literacy and art making)
• Develop and implement public stroller tours focused on the interaction between caregivers, their toddlers, and the collection
• Implement public programming for a multi-generational family audience focused on collaborative art making and the museum’s collection
• Develop skills to engage a variety of audiences with the museum’s collection and history
• Learn and practice gallery teaching
• Help implement outreach programs as needed
• Learn the duties and responsibilities of various museum staff, with an emphasis on Education

Learning Objectives:

By the end of the internship, the intern will have the opportunity to learn the following:

• Design and plan educational programming for children and teens
• Conduct museum educational programming for a variety of age groups
• Public speaking and writing skills for a variety of age groups
• Learn and practice research skills, specifically for museum education
• Learn and practice writing museum proposals
• Museum event logistics, planning, and budgeting

Minimum Qualifications/Experience:

• At least one year of college. Undergraduate, Masters, & PhD students welcome.
• Some experience working with children
• Comfortable with public speaking
• Desire to work in the museum or art education field
• Written communication skills
• Familiar with Microsoft Office
• Positive, can-do attitude

Preferred Qualifications/Experience:

• Some Art Education experience
• Some Art Historical knowledge

Expected Schedule:

• 40-hours per week, flexible; must be able to work evenings and weekends
• On campus; not remote

Project Description:

The intern will study with dedicated theatre arts professionals in a hands-on learning environment at The Ringling’s Historic Asolo Theatre (The HAT) during its summer season. The internship is focused on technical theater arts, but can include elements of arts administration depending on the intern’s interests. The intern will be introduced to theatre arts management skills studying under the Production Manager of The HAT and be involved in sound, lighting, video, set, basic rigging, props and stage management and planning.

• Assist the theater’s Production Manager with the coordination of operations and performances.
• Assist Performance team with ongoing administrative needs, which will expose intern to a variety of aspects of arts management.
• Assist with organizing technical and production equipment and programming needs for the performance season, including organizing technical requests and the production calendar.
• Learn how to program a basic sound and lighting board, as well as run a projector, run video software on a variety of programs, and focus lighting instruments.
• Have the opportunity to work with professional artists, cultivating important relationships and widening knowledge of a range of performance disciplines.
• Participate in theater maintenance, safety training and learn about requirements and membership in the associated technical and artist unions (IATSE, et al).
• Have the opportunity to review technical riders and sit in on artist planning meetings to determine technical production needs.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of the internship, the intern will:

• Be knowledgeable in the basics of technical theater arts management.
• Gain practical experience, with direct mentorship from technical and curatorial staff.
• Gain valuable hands-on experience within a professional theater environment, which will prepare them for collegiate theater programs and competitive professional work opportunities in the local market, or in regional and national fields.
• Develop and improve communication, organizational and conceptual skills, and provide a mentoring experience for emerging professionals.
• Help students decide if technical work is the career path they would like to follow and provide an excellent springboard for professional networking.
• Many of the technical elements apply to other industries, and this basic knowledge helps expand social, mental and physical discipline for problem solving, project planning, team building and communication, which are essentials in professional arts careers.

Minimum Qualifications/Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent. College degree not required.
• Interest in performing arts.
• Experience should include some exposure to the performing arts as a student, pre-professional performer or theater employee.
• Other experience may include technical theater, box office and front of house management, program design, costume and set design or promotions.

Preferred Qualifications/Experience:

• For technical theater: Experience with sound, lighting and video equipment; experience with theater front of house management.
• For performing arts administration: Experience with grant writing, marketing and social media.

Expected Schedule:

• 40-hours per week, Any five-day period during Monday-Sunday, 9am-5pm
• On campus; not remote

Project Description:

• The intern will work in The Ringling’s Visitor Pavilion. The intern will perform the following activities:
• Set up and monitor e-Ticket check-in within the Visitors Pavilion
• Direct flow of visitor traffic to avoid congestion
• Help visitors and provide basic customer service

Learning Objectives:

The intern will learn the following:

• Attentive customer service
• Greeting and helping a diverse range of guests during their Ringling visit
• Problem solving skills in a fast-paced environment

Minimum Qualifications/Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Need to be able to stand (at least three hours) and walk about the Visitors Pavilion
• Able to scan guests’ tickets for entrance to the museum grounds
• Able to perform basic customer service duties such as answering questions and directing guests to museum areas

Preferred Qualifications/Experience:

• Any previous experience or interest in museums, ticketing a plus, but not necessary

Expected Schedule:

• 40-hours per week, Tuesday-Friday 9a-5p; Saturday 10am-6pm
• On campus; not remote

Project Description:

The intern will work in The Ringling’s Historic Asolo Theater Box Office. The intern will perform the following activities:

• Set up and Monitor will call ticket boxes
• Check-in summer camp, and large adult groups
• Follow up with all groups as to final guest list

Learning Objectives:

The intern will learn the following:

• Attentive customer service
• Greeting and helping a diverse range of guests during their Ringling visit
• Problem solving skills in a fast-paced environment

Minimum Qualifications/Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Need to be able to stand (at least an hour) and walk about the theater (including steps) to guide patrons during seating and performances
• Able to scan guests’ tickets for entrance to the theater
• Able to perform basic customer service duties such as answering questions and handing out will call tickets

Preferred Qualifications/Experience:

• Any previous experience or interest in theater is a plus, but not necessary
• Able to create and monitor Excel spreadsheets

Available Departments

Depending on a student’s degree program, skillset, and experience, they can learn and participate in a variety of hands-on projects in one of the following Ringling departments: Archives, Collections (Registration, Preparation), Conservation, Curatorial, Development, Education, Events, Library, Marketing, and Visitor Services.

Professional Development

All Ringling internships offer professional development and cultural enrichment opportunities that can include: gallery talks with curators, board meeting observation, artist lectures, exhibition openings, area field trips, and many other Ringling events.

To Apply

College students seeking a Ringling fall or spring internship must email the following items to [email protected] at least 60 days prior to the first day of the preferred internship semester:

• a relevant cover letter that includes

  • required semester (fall or spring)
  • required hours per week (10 to 20 hours)
  • preferred internship experience (in-person, remote, hybrid)
  • preferred department(s) (Archives, Education, etc.)
  • name of university/college and degree program requiring the internship
    contact information for degree program or faculty advisor
  • statement(s) explaining how a Ringling internship will benefit the student’s academic and professional goals

• a relevant resume that includes

  • education (schools, degrees, certificates, etc. – formal and informal)
  • relevant skills, background, and experience (professional, academic, and volunteer)
  • copies of unofficial college transcripts

NOTE: Due to high demand and limited staff capacity, fall and spring internship are reserved exclusively for college students enrolled in degree-seeking programs and those earning college credit for their internship experience. High school students seeking experience may learn about becoming a Ringling volunteer using this link: https://www.ringling.org/join-give/volunteer/

The Coville Photography Intern works with the Stanton B. and Nancy W. Kaplan Curator of Photography and Media Art to research objects in The Ringling’s photography collection in order to update or correct catalog records. They assist in research and create bibliographies and summary reports on selected artists and/or photographs, locate applicable resources onsite in the Ringling Museum Art Library; and identify potential loans from other institutions. The intern assists the curator in weekly surveys within the paper storage vault onsite to view, assess, and research photographs. The intern develops art history research skills; gains a better understanding of the history of photography, understands best practices for safe handling, care, and storage of photographic objects; and develops skills in curatorship within a professional museum environment.

Applications for The Coville Photography Internship are CLOSED. Applications typically open in October with an expected start date of January (spring academic semester).

For more information contact [email protected].

The Eleanor Merritt Fellowship

The Eleanor Merritt Fellowship develops cultural heritage leaders. On a 9 to 12-month visiting A&P appointment (Administrative & Professional), the Merritt Fellow works under the supervision of the Associate Director of Academic Affairs and Collections to learn, conduct research, and complete arts administration projects supporting The Ringling’s Strategic Plan. The first half of the fellowship year focuses on instructive projects and tasks supporting The Ringling’s Strategic Plan spanning multiple departments that include: Archives, Collections (Registration and Preparation), Conservation, Education, Library, Performing Arts, and Visitor Services. The second half of the fellowship year focuses on projects supporting the fellow’s onward academic and career goals.

The Merritt Fellowship is a career-pipeline opportunity named to honor Eleanor Merritt (1933-2019), a prolific artist, arts advocate, educator, and The Ringling’s first African American docent and board member. Merritt explored the interrelatedness of society, spirituality, and gender while using the human figure in a range of styles derived from a wide cultural matrix inclusive of her African and Caribbean roots as well as the Abstract Expressionist education she received at Brooklyn College in the 1950s. Merritt was also an important early advocate within national and regional arts organizations such as the Women’s Caucus for Art (WCA) Women of Color Slide Project, the Sarasota Visual Arts Center, as well as the Sarasota Arts in Public Places committee. In 2022, The Ringling highlighted Merritt’s career as an artist, educator, and advocate in its exhibition: Eleanor Merritt: Remembrance.

Applications for the Eleanor Merritt Fellowship are CLOSED. Applications open annually between February and April with an expected start date in August.

For more information, contact [email protected].