Hayley Mann has Hands-On Experience with Internship at Gadsden Arts

from FSU Art BFA ’20 Hayley Mann:

This past semester I had the opportunity to intern at Gadsden Arts Center & Museum. I interned under curator Angie Barry, and her guidance has helped me grow in my understanding of museum and gallery work. At Gadsden Arts, interns are given plenty of hands-on experience in event planning, PR, education, installation, and other professional skills. Some of my favorite tasks included researching exhibiting artists to write wall text included in shows. I was even able to get some press releases published in the local newspaper. Being surrounded by art and delving into a field I am passionate about was a privilege. I encountered so many warm, skilled, and devoted people throughout this internship. The gallery staff, interns, volunteers, and artists all had so much wisdom to share with me in our conversations. These are wonderful, lasting connections.

Gadsden Arts Silent Auction Gala. Group Staff

One of the highlights from my time at Gadsden Arts was the Silent Auction Gala. The Silent Auction was such an exciting project to begin this internship with. I got to experience properly handling art as we set up the event space and prepared to host some of Quincy’s art community. Working together with everyone and seeing the outpouring of support for the museum was truly special. It really showed how much an art space like Gadsden Arts nourishes its surrounding area. I also loved being a part of each show that came through the museum. Helping write press releases, run events, and install work was an invaluable part of this experience. I enjoyed the planning for upcoming shows and seeing the behind the scenes of exhibitions. Seeing how decisions were made for each body of work and each space taught me a lot about exhibition planning.

Gadsden Arts Silent Auction Gala. Cole Hancock (left) Hayley Mann (right)

 

 

I leave this internship having gained so much. I have new professional skills, a portfolio of writing, and many personal connections. For those interested in art or museum careers, I cannot recommend this internship enough. Gadsden Arts is a fantastic organization, and there is so much opportunity to learn there. The staff are fantastic. They are helpful and knowledgeable; it was a pleasure working with them.