Job summary
Job post source
This job is directly from McNay Art Museum
Job overview
The Semmes Foundation Fellowship in Museum Studies at McNay Art Museum is a ten-month program designed to prepare individuals for curatorial careers by providing hands-on experience in various museum functions.
Responsibilities and impact
The fellow will work closely with the Head of Curatorial Affairs on collection management, exhibitions, publications, and programs to gain comprehensive curatorial experience.
Compensation and benefits
The fellowship offers a full-time salary of $33,000 for ten months; no additional benefits are specified.
Experience and skills
Applicants should have a master's degree in art history or related fields, strong communication, computer, and research skills, with a preference for knowledge of contemporary art and experience working with artists.
Career development
The fellowship has a strong track record of placing alumni in museums, academic institutions, and arts organizations, indicating good professional growth opportunities.
Company information
McNay Art Museum is a museum of modern and contemporary art with a commitment to curatorial excellence and professional training through fellowships.
Team overview
The fellow will work directly with the Head of Curatorial Affairs, indicating close mentorship within the curatorial team.
Application process
Applicants must submit a cover letter, resume, and a two-page essay on their curatorial focus by July 15, 2025, via the McNay Art Museum or Indeed websites.
Unique job features
This fellowship offers a unique opportunity to gain diverse curatorial experience in a respected modern art museum under direct mentorship.
Company overview
The McNay Art Museum, located in San Antonio, Texas, is renowned for its extensive collection of 19th and 20th-century European and American art. Founded in 1954 by Marion Koogler McNay, the museum generates revenue through admissions, memberships, donations, and special events. It is notable for being the first modern art museum in Texas and houses over 22,000 works, including pieces by renowned artists such as Picasso, Van Gogh, and O'Keeffe. The museum also offers educational programs and community outreach initiatives, enhancing its cultural impact.
How to land this job
Position your resume to highlight your master’s degree in art history, museum studies, or related fields, emphasizing any curatorial, research, or exhibition experience relevant to the fellowship.
Focus on showcasing strong written and oral communication skills, computer proficiency, and any direct work with artists or contemporary art knowledge to align with the job description.
Apply through multiple channels including the McNay Art Museum’s official careers page at www.mcnayart.org/careers-internships and popular job boards like Indeed and LinkedIn to maximize exposure.
Connect with current or former fellows and the Head of Curatorial Affairs at McNay Art Museum on LinkedIn; open conversations with ice breakers like asking about their favorite exhibition experience or insights on succeeding in the fellowship.
Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords from the job description such as 'curatorial practice,' 'museum studies,' 'exhibitions,' 'research skills,' and 'contemporary art' to ensure it passes initial screenings.
Leverage Jennie Johnson’s Power Apply feature to automate tailored applications across platforms, identify relevant LinkedIn contacts for networking, and optimize your resume for ATS, freeing you to focus on preparing your essay and interview readiness.
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