Internships at the Mattress Factory
The Mattress Factory is an organization that is built upon the dedication and support of volunteers and interns. There are a variety of ways to get involved and support the Museum's operations, programs, outreach and events. Experience what happens behind-the-scenes at this unique art museum and residency program. Internships are offered during spring, fall and summer terms.
Scheduling for internships is flexible and training is provided. All positions are part-time and unpaid. Internships are generally 10-12 weeks in length and 10-12 hours per week.
Full-time internships are arranged on a case-by-case basis. --------------------------------------------------------- OPERATIONS INTERN We are seeking an individual to work closely with our Director of Operations on various aspects of the museum's operations. Duties will include a variety of administrative work and research. Areas of interest may include human resources, retail operations, financial procedures and controls, and day-to-day operations. This internship is ideal for anyone who wants experience in the overall operations of a non-profit organization from a senior management point of view. This internship is part-time and unpaid (except under CMU's work-study program).
Requirements: • Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• Interest in non-profit administration and business preferred
Email your résumé and cover letter to Catena at catena[at]mattress.org.
Past MF Intern Comments:
"I think its safe to say that I have never been around so much installation art, and so many people this passionate about creating a positive experience for artists to work in....It is about supporting working, living, artists. It is about active art, and an active and creative community. This is something that has never been communicated to me prior to this experience."
-Museum Education Intern, 2005
“I was extremely happy with my internship at the Mattress Factory, and actually find it difficult to summarize everything I learned because it was so enriching, both personally and professionally. My internship allowed me to observe and truly be a part of all aspects of a museum. All members of the staff contributed to my learning process; I felt that the MF staff worked as a cohesive team as opposed to individuals and separated departments. I worked closely with a classroom educator and learned what it was like to be a part of educational programming from the planning stages, to seeing the entire learning process, to the end of the course and final presentation of class accomplishments. By interning at the Mattress Factory, I received valuable museum work experience and gained confidence as a professional in the field.”
--Museum Education Intern, Summer 2006
"It is exciting to learn about the different methods of talking to people about art. In participating in the workshops available to the museum educators, I learned how to get people to talk about art. I think this is the hardest part because people are so nervous and self-conscious talking about something they think they know nothing about. But, the tactics I learned are not about forcing them to spout facts or knowledge. I learned that getting people to look at what is around them and examine how they feel is the best way for them to really learn and experience a piece. If only all museums felt this way!"
-Museum Education Intern, 2005
"I have learned about what all is required to fundraise for a non-profit organization. My research skills have improved because of this and I have become more aware of the types of organizations out there that are capable and willing to give to the arts. I have also been made aware of the different advertising opportunities that can be used to reach a larger audience."
- Development Department intern, Spring 2002
“I found working with the artists to be an extremely fulfilling and valuable experience. I learned a lot about being an artist and making art just by working in the same place as them. Even when the tasks were difficult, I felt like I was learning about the nature of the artistic process and how other people in my field choose to solve problems both creatively and practically.”
-Curatorial Intern, Summer 2006
Many thanks to our dedicated team of interns and volunteers whose contributions make the Mattress Factory a success. Education programs, special events and general museum operations would not be possible without the generous support of MF Volunteers and Interns. Get involved with a diverse group of art supporters and enthusiasts through MF Volunteer and Internship programs today!
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