Apply Now: Art Bridges 2025-2026 Paid Internship Program

Bentonville, AR – Art Bridges Foundation has announced its paid internship program for the 2025-2026 academic year. Applications are now open for students and recent graduates interested in gaining hands-on experience in the arts, nonprofits, and philanthropy. The deadline to apply is February 28, 2025.

About Art Bridges Foundation

Founded in 2017 by philanthropist Alice Walton, Art Bridges works to bring American art out of storage and into communities nationwide. Additionally, the foundation partners with over 200 museums, supporting nearly 900 projects that have reached more than 5.3 million people across 49 states and Puerto Rico. Through financial and strategic support, Art Bridges helps museums develop exhibitions, loan artworks, and create programs that engage local audiences.

Internship Program Overview

The Art Bridges Internship Program offers a unique opportunity for emerging arts professionals to gain valuable experience in various departments. Since its launch in 2020, the program has hosted over 60 interns. Moreover, interns will receive mentorship, professional development, and the chance to contribute to meaningful projects.

Internship Departments

Interns can apply to work in one of the following departments:

Curatorial: Focuses on research, label writing, and exhibition consultation for the Art Bridges Collection.
Fellows and Internship Programs: Supports the placement and training of fellows and interns at partner institutions.
Funding & Awards: Assists in distributing awards to partner museums and managing funding processes.
Marketing & Communications: Creates multimedia content to enhance the foundation’s digital presence and storytelling.
Operations: Works on strategic planning, project management, and process improvement.
Partner Loan Network: Facilitates long-term loans of American art to partner museums.
Partnership Development: Drives national partner growth and museum engagement efforts.
Registration: Oversees the care and transportation of artworks in the Art Bridges Collection.
Cohort Program: Encourages collaboration among museums for multiyear exhibitions and shared resources.

Internship Benefits

Interns will receive a competitive hourly wage of $18 and may be eligible for course credit. Furthermore, the program includes:

Site visits to regional cultural institutions like Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.
Participation in the Art Bridges Speaker Series featuring industry leaders.
Professional development workshops on resume building, interview preparation, and more.
Networking opportunities with Art Bridges staff and regional cultural organizations.
Social activities such as intern coffee chats and staff events.

Candidate Requirements

Applicants must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program in Northwest Arkansas or be recent graduates (<1 year) residing in the region. Additionally, ideal candidates will demonstrate:

Enthusiasm for working in a fast-paced environment.
Strong organizational and time-management skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft 365 and familiarity with CRM systems.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter detailing their interest in the program. In addition, applicants are encouraged to list their top three preferred departments and indicate if they are open to other internship opportunities. Optional writing samples may also be included.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Art Bridges is dedicated to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. Furthermore, the foundation encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including women, minorities, veterans, and people with disabilities.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Interns will work in office and museum settings, with occasional travel required. Additionally, the role may involve lifting up to 25 pounds and prolonged computer use. Reasonable accommodations will be provided for individuals with disabilities.

Apply Today

Don’t miss this opportunity to join a dynamic team and make a meaningful impact in the arts. For more information and to apply, visit Art Bridges Foundation.

Key Highlights:

Paid internship at $18/hour.
Professional development and networking opportunities.
Open to undergraduate and graduate students in Northwest Arkansas.
Applications due by February 28, 2025.

Art Bridges is shaping the future of American art by empowering the next generation of arts professionals. Apply now to be part of this transformative experience!