Art History

The Thomas Cole National Historic Site (TCNHS) is now reviewing applications for fellows to participate in the research and interpretation of the work, home, and studio of Thomas Cole (1801 – 1848). Three applicants will be selected to join the site from May 29 – November 3, 2013. 

The Thomas Cole National Historic Site (TCNHS) preserves and interprets the home and studios of Thomas Cole, the founder of the Hudson River School of painting, the nation’s first art movement. Cole’s profound influence on America’s cultural landscape inspires us to engage broad audiences through educational programs that are relevant today. TCNHS consists of Thomas Cole’s c. 1815 Federal-era brick home, his 1839 studio, and other historic structures on five landscaped acres with magnificent views of the Catskill Mountains. 

Through a combination of research, interpretation, and hands-on projects, Cole Fellows are afforded an opportunity to conduct significant research and to gain professional museum experience. 

Selected candidates will have the opportunity to: 

+ Conduct in-depth research that leads to a major project or paper based on her/his work over the season.

+ Lead tours of the historic site and have full engagement in interpretive programming.

+ Reporting directly to and working with the Collection and Exhibition Manager, Fellows also have the chance to work closely with the Executive Director, Education Director, and other staff; projects include collection care and research, educational programming, audience evaluation, and special events.

+ Participate in staff meetings and learn about the structural, strategic, and creative decisions involved in the day to day operations of a historic house museum.

+ Make field trips to area museums and historic venues, meet other museum professionals, participate in presentations and assigned readings, and benefit from professional development opportunities, including resume review, and next step planning for each Fellow based on individual interests and career goals.

Free shared housing at the site is provided, as well as a monthly stipend of $300. Fellows are responsible for utilities, food, and other living expenses. Participation for the entire season, May 29 –November 3, is required. 

Qualifications: TCNHS seeks self-motivated recent graduates, graduating college seniors, and graduate students who have expressed a commitment to pursue careers in history, art, material culture, decorative arts, collection and exhibition management, research, museum studies, and/or education. Applicants should be organized, energetic, have a passion for art and ideas, and an affinity for working with the public. A car is helpful, but not required. 

How to Apply: APPLICATIONS will be accepted now through FEBRUARY 20, 2013. *** Candidates who submit their applications on or before JANUARY 15, 2013, will also be eligible to apply with TCNHS for an annual grant in an amount up to $5,000. Interviews with potential candidates are going on now. To be considered, please send the following to Kate Menconeri, Collection & Exhibition Manager, [email protected] (PDF files only) or via mail attn: Kate, Thomas Cole National Historic Site, 218 Spring St. PO Box 426, Catskill, NY 12414.

 Cover letter describing your interest and goals

 Resume

 References – include names and contact info for 3

 Writing sample (2 to 5 pages)

For general questions, please email [email protected] or call: 518-943-7465 x 2. For general information about Thomas Cole National Historic Site, upcoming programming and exhibitions, and future events, please visit www.thomascole.org. 

Thomas Cole National Historic Site, 218 Spring St. PO Box 426, Catskill, NY 12414 / www.thomascole.org. 

Position Announcement

Summer 2013 Education Interns

Description: The positions run from June 3, 2013 to August 9, 2013.
In this fast-paced, hands-on internship successful candidates will work in one or more of several education department programmatic areas: summer camps; family programs and activities; special events; and adult programming.  Interns will work as camp counselors, assist with logistical planning, set up, and execution of special day and evening events, and work in the family activity center.  Interns also may be assigned to conduct research, fill in as exhibition guides, and perform other duties.  Expect some long days, significant logistical work in preparation for events and on-going public interaction.

Experience and Skills: 

Candidates must be comfortable working with diverse publics.  Experience working with children in academic or informal learning environments – school, camps, museums, etc. — required. Art-making and instructional experience desired. Previous customer service work experience desired. Friendly, can-do attitude necessary, with good time management skills and ability to successfully juggle multiple responsibilities. Ability to work independently, as well as cooperatively, within the intern and education department teams and with staff from across the museum. Excellent verbal and written communications skills.

Current college sophomores-seniors may apply. Academic experience in studio art, art history, education, museum studies or similar. Valid driver’s license to operate Museum vehicles, required. Ability to lift 35 lbs; ability to walk and stand for significant periods of time.

Compensation :  Stipend of $2,000 plus housing at the Museum’s historic Brickhouse located two miles from the Museum campus.

Application Process
To apply send brief cover letter, resume, two references, one letter of recommendation, and a list of relevant courses, grades, and overall GPA.  Address application materials to Megan Zinner, HR, Shelburne Museum, P.O. Box 10, Shelburne, VT, 05482.  Application materials and questions can be emailed to Ms. Zinner at [email protected]