Lessons Learned

Well that was quick. Just a few months ago, I was embarking upon a new semester, ready to tackle the second phase of my internship at Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. Clichéd as it may be to say, it's all true. While I'm ready to move on, it's strange to know that I won't be doing the same duties each week with the excellent staff under whom I've been learning for the past seven-plus months.

On the subject of learning, I finally was able to understand all of the inner-workings of a moderately-sized nonprofit (one that even has to extensively work with city government), and the incredibly complex process that produces some of the best art exhibitions I have ever seen. More specifically, I learned about the particular practices of artistic research, the contracting and archiving process, and the installation process. With regard to installation, I finally saw how site-specific art works are put together. Spoiler: it's really hard, turns out differently ever time, involves a lot of trial-and-error, and requires tons of creativity to get done. BUT, it's always worth it. Also, as with every internship and job I've had previously, I learned about professional workplace dynamics. What was different this time? This time, I actually sat at a desk for entire days! While there was certainly hands-on and other unique work, it was honestly the first time I saw how an actual, (semi-) traditional office is made up. At times exciting, at times mundane, but always something I am glad to have experienced.

When looking back at my initial goals for this internship, I am proud to say that I have a deliverable outcome for each!

1. Better understand how to create a cohesive show of art work
I'm co-curating a group art show at my workplace (gallery Modified Arts) that opens this month! Also, I feel quite prepared for future work in a museum setting.
2. Gain practical skills to complement my creative ones in working at the intersection of art and urbanism (my true twin passions)
Here, while I failed in my first attempt, I will be reapplying for a grant from the Arizona Humanities Council to fund a documentation project (inclusive of writing, researching, and curating a photo exhibition) of historic properties along the light rail. While this iron was already in the fire when I started, I feel far more prepared for action this time around.
3.  Build relationships into which I might one day build a career.
I got a job! While not in curatorial, I am now an assistant preparator for the Museum, beginning in January. Cool stuff!

A pretty successful semester, in my estimation.