Program Overview

Since 1990, the Chinati Foundation's Internship Program has provided hands-on museum experience to more than 240 students, recent graduates and young professionals from a variety of backgrounds and disciplines. During extended stays at Chinati, interns gain exposure to various aspects of the museum's daily operations, working closely with staff, resident artists, visiting scholars, architects, and museum professionals. Interns play an essential role in the museum's daily operations and gain valuable experience for future courses of study and careers in museum and arts administration.

Over the last 20 years, participants in the program have included interns from all parts of the United States, as well as Austria, Belgium, England, Germany, Holland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Portugal, Brazil, Scotland, Sweden, and Australia.

As compensation, the Museum offers interns a modest stipend of $100 per week and a furnished apartment on the Chinati grounds. Although Chinati's internships are geared toward students pursuing degrees in art, architecture, art history, conservation, or museum studies, the museum welcomes applicants of all ages and backgrounds.

Chinati currently offers a General Museum internship, a Conservation internship and a Development internship.

General Museum Internship
Designed to give overall exposure to the workings of individual departments throughout the museum. Works directly with Education and Visitor Services staff, as well as assisting in other departments.

Conservation Internship
Offers hands-on training in all aspects of museum conservation. Works directly with Chinati's conservator.

Development Internship
Provides experience in museum and non-profit fundraising and management. Works directly with Director of Development.

Chinati encourages international applicants and will work with accepted interns to obtain the necessary Visa, though Chinati is currently unable to provide any financial support for this process.

List of Chinati Foundation interns

This program is supported by the The Elke Youth Advancement Trust and The George & Mary Josephine Hamman Foundation.