Summer Internship
Deadline for applications: March 17, 2024
Start date: May 3, 2024
The Works Art & Design Festival Works to Work Program accepts applications for students who are ready to stretch and explore in the field of art and design.
Submit applications through theworks.ab.ca/education.
The Works to Work Summer internship program is a one-of-a-kind leadership and professional development program designed for emerging arts professionals. Beginning in May and running throughout the summer, this paid program is fast-paced and connects theoretical learning with real-world applications through in-class instruction and up to 450 hours of practical work experience in delivering The Works Art & Design Festival. Participants benefit from working with experienced arts presenters and world class artists, while learning in a variety of ways including assignment modules, group discussions, collaborative assignments, peer mentorship, guest lectures, professional exposure, and hands-on experience.
Works to Work participants may return summer after summer to encourage ongoing skill development, progressing from Assistant through to Lead Supervisor level in a particular stream.
Note that changing health guidelines and the resulting program shifts require adaptability and openness from interns. This is an in-person work opportunity. Masking is required for indoor work.
About the Festival
For over 37 years, The Works International Visual Arts Society has presented The Works Art & Design Festival—a unique, free event that showcases everything from visual art to cutting edge design, digital art, and new media technology. Running June 27-July 1 in 2024, The Festival advances the development, awareness and appreciation of art and design in Canada and provides artists, designers, and the public a forum for exchanging ideas.
Placements available in the following 5 streams:
- Exhibit Production & Technology: Oversee the physical aspects of 20+ exhibits and installations including venue preparation, artwork handling, install & dismantle, construction techniques, resource management, inventories, and special projects.
- Curatorial: Administer and document festival presentations including curatorial research, registration, reporting, archiving, contracts, insurance, communications, curatorial intent, artwork handling, install & dismantle, exhibit interpretation, and audience development.
- Design: Assist with the design of The Works Art & Design Festival marketing collateral, apply festival campaign to print and web outputs including festival guide.
- Marketing, Public Relations, Special Events: Develop and implement public and media outreach strategies, administer and deliver special events throughout the festival season including the media launch, artist events, stage presentations, and celebration events.
- Volunteer Administration: Recruit, orient, schedule, and develop event and appreciation programs for The Works volunteers. Maintain and develop relationships with volunteer organizations and community supporters. Operate volunteer headquarters during festival.
Skills / Highlights
Exhibit Production & Technology: Students seeking careers as artists or cultural workers will gain hands-on, practical knowledge in construction, art handling, and exhibit preparation. Familiarity with hand tools, power tools, and basic construction are considered assets. Use of ladders and power tools are required in this role.
Curatorial: Ideal applicants will have strong skills in written and verbal communication, organization, and time management. Skills with Office 365 (especially Microsoft Excel) and experience with Squarespace and Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, etc.) are considered assets.
Design: Graphic design and technical skills with Adobe Creative Suite are necessary in this role. Experience with Squarespace, photography and video editing skills are considered strong assets.
Marketing, Public Relations, Special Events: Strong professional writing skills and comfort in communication are necessary in this role. Experience in graphic design, photography, or video editing are considered a strong asset.
Volunteer Administration: The Volunteer Administration Assistant works in a dynamic team environment where interpersonal skills, cooperation, and communication are imperative. Management, scheduling, and conflict resolution skills are considered strong assets.
Who Should Apply?
Enthusiastic individuals who are excited to stretch and explore in the field of art and design.
This includes:
- Students and graduates of visual art and design programs, marketing, communications, public relations, and arts and cultural management programs
- Students in related fields (museums, theatre, heritage, recreation, etc.)
- Emerging artists interested in building and expanding their careers
- Persons considering a career in arts and culture
Application Instructions
Interested applicants must apply through the online form located on our website theworks.ab.ca/education.
Determine which stream(s) you would like to apply for (please indicate in your cover letter)
Upload the following: Cover letter, Resume or CV, Contact information for 2-3 references
Do not apply twice. Any changes to an initial online application can be emailed to education@theworks.ab.ca.
Contact Taiessa Pagola, Education Facilitator by email at education@theworks.ab.ca or call 780.426.2122 ext. 229.
