Museum Studies BDP Student Maddie Cannings interned with the Landmarks Public Art Program, where they conducted research for various projects to prepare for future acquisitions.
"Working in this space also allowed me to think theoretically about public art and connect my knowledge from class with what I learned during my internship.”
Where did you intern?
I interned with the Landmarks Public Art Program.
How did you find this internship?
One of my friends was applying for another position at Landmarks and encouraged me to apply for the Education Internship.
What kind of work did you do as an intern?
I wrote content for public art tours, which were often curated for specific audiences (e.g. younger STEM students and music-based groups). I conducted research on curators, artists, movements and artworks for various projects, including tours and preparation for future acquisitions. I also helped maintain the James Turrell Skyspace, located on the roof of the Student Activity Center, by tracking the number of visitors and restocking informational materials. I delivered Landmarks pamphlets to different buildings, hung posters for events around campus, and worked events by answering questions and assisting in activities.
What was the most rewarding aspect of your Connecting Experience?
I've been involved with Landmarks for 3 years, working as a James Turrell Skyspace Attendant and briefly as a Docent. As the Education Intern, I worked closely with the Landmarks staff and became more comfortable in a professional environment. Working in this space also allowed me to think more theoretically about public art, connecting my knowledge from class with what I learned during my internship. These were the most rewarding aspects of my Connecting Experience.
In what ways has this Connecting Experience shaped your plans for the future?
I learned a lot about my learning and working styles during my internship, including that I enjoy research more than teaching. However, the practice I got teaching Austinites and K-12 students about public art was fun and helpful, so I'm more open to teaching as a part of my profession post-grad.
Please discuss the relationship that you had with your faculty mentor(s), and how they helped you during this Connecting Experience.
I spoke with my faculty mentor every few weeks and we discussed the work I'd done at my internship, how it connects to my classes, and some art theory about public art. I already knew my mentor and they've been very supportive of me as a student so it was easy to talk about my internship with them.