Museum Studies Intern at the Nationality Rooms - Spring 2017
I never anticipated how the Nationality Room’s curatorial internship would evolve. I always had desired to participate in an organization that I could contribute something more than just adding to an email list. I was challenged in this internship, but the experience I gained is invaluable. The final products of my internship will feed into the fall semester’s Museum Studies Exhibition Seminar, acknowledging the importance of my work created additional pressure and motivation to approach every task with care and consideration. Archival and curatorial tasks are not simple on their own. A combination of the two requires a balance of organizational and creative skills. My day-to-day tasks provided me the opportunity to operate within a position that I could wear many hats, and identify what kind of work would be the most fulfilling for me in the future.
Some of the hats fit, and others did not. The archivist’s is one that I have had in my repertoire for years now, but I was surprised to find that the curator’s did not fit. Gathering and creating the framework for an exhibition appeals to many, but I realized my organizational skills are better suited to other sectors within the field of art history. When I wore the liaison’s hat, I became aware of the power of a well-formulated email. It was empowering to work as a registrar, to see the physical products of my efforts in the form of 463 conditions reports and three ordered storage facilities. Amidst changing roles and encountering different obstacles along the way, I realized where I belong within an institution, academic, cultural, or otherwise.
One of those obstacles for instance is a limitation of space. I became highly aware that no matter the location, a lack of storage space is an issue that permeates through all institutions. Contending with space requires innovative methods and high levels of planning, how to utilize the smallest of areas as if it was Mary Poppins’ handbag. There is still so much that I can learn and bring to another multi-faceted position in the future. The Nationality Rooms may not be a grand institution outside of the University of Pittsburgh’s campus, but the 30 classrooms depict the ethnic groups that helped build the city of Pittsburgh. They provide visitors with an undeniable sense of pride, and facilitate conversations about the importance strong local communities and cultural acceptance. I am thankful that I had the opportunity to partake in this internship, and I look forward to seeing the students’ exhibition in the fall.