Hirshhorn Interpretive Guide Internship

[TropDar]

Has anyone taken part in this internship before? What was the experience like?

 

It seems like a great experience and I am wondering whether to decline another internship offer (unpaid) to see about this one...

[ArtHistoryandMuseum]

Is the general difference between a docent and interpretative guide, the first presents material (i.e. one sided, aka lecture) and the second engages with the public (i.e. two sided, aka conversation)?

 

For the second (interpretative guiding) --

 

Are you outgoing? Will you be able to strike up a conversation with anyone? Can you think well on your feet? You may be super prepared to offer facts and historic biographic information on art, but visitors always come up with new questions to things... things you've never thought of. In my opinion, this kind of teaching/learning experience is awesome... you'll learn so much, and then you'll engage with subsequent visitors likely in an improved way, usually more concise manner and generally more aware of the "common" responses to art.

 

Anyway, this is my basic understanding of the job post. It does look great. While I've never done an internship like this (or with Hirshhorn), I have been employed in museums, where I am expected to engage the public and interpret the collections one-on-one basis. I expect that you'll definitely grow from the opportunity.

 

It's a unique type of internship. I say, go for it!

[dmgm]

Hi--I participated in the Hirshhorn Interpretive Guide program several summers ago. It is totally worth it. Feel free to message me to discuss more!