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.