15 Art Internships For High School Students To Explore Various Career Paths

Looking to get into the exciting world of art while still in high school?

Internships can be an awesome way to gain hands-on experience, meet fellow creatives, and learn from professionals in the field.

If you’re into painting, sculpture, digital design, or any other form of artistic expression, there’s an internship out there with your name on it.

However, before starting these internships, get to know about college do’s and don’ts.

So, let’s get on with our list of the best art internships for high school students.

Art Internships For High School Students 2024

Following are the best art internships for high school students:

1. Metropolitan Museum of Art Internship

The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City offers high school students a unique opportunity to explore various aspects of museum operations.

Interns may assist in educational programs, learn about art conservation techniques, and gain insights into curatorial practices.

Workshops and mentorship sessions with museum professionals provide valuable hands-on experience in one of the world’s premier art institutions.

2. Smithsonian Institution Internship

The Smithsonian provides diverse internship opportunities across its many museums and research centers in Washington D.C.

High school students can get themselves in art, history, and culture through projects that may include research, exhibition preparation, and public engagement.

The program encourages exploration and learning in a supportive environment with access to vast collections and expert guidance.

3. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Internship

MoMA’s internship program for high school students focuses on modern and contemporary art.

Interns participate in gallery talks, workshops, and projects that enhance their understanding of art history and museum practices.

They work closely with museum staff, gaining practical experience in areas such as exhibition development, educational programming, and visitor engagement.

4. National Gallery of Art Internship

Located in Washington D.C., the National Gallery of Art gives high school interns exposure to art conservation, curation, and educational initiatives.

Interns may assist with research, cataloging, and preparation for exhibitions while learning from curators and conservators.

Workshops and seminars complement their experience, providing a comprehensive introduction to museum careers.

5. Getty Foundation Multicultural Undergraduate Internship

The Getty Museum in Los Angeles hosts this internship program, which aims to increase diversity in the arts.

High school interns participate in projects related to arts management, conservation, and research.

They engage with museum professionals and attend seminars focused on career development and cultural understanding.

6. Guggenheim Museum Internship

The Guggenheim Museum’s high school internship program offers students the opportunity to explore modern and contemporary art in a renowned cultural institution.

Interns assist with educational programs, visitor services, and administrative tasks while attending workshops and discussions led by museum staff.

7. Art Institute of Chicago Teen Lab Program

At the Art Institute of Chicago, the Teen Lab Program engages high school students in art-making workshops, gallery talks, and behind-the-scenes tours.

Participants collaborate with artists and educators to develop their artistic skills and explore diverse art forms and techniques.

 The program increases creativity and critical thinking while introducing teens to career pathways in the arts.

8. Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) High School Internship

LACMA’s internship program offers high school students a full introduction to museum operations and art history.

Interns participate in workshops, assist with exhibitions, and engage with museum visitors through educational programs.

Mentorship from museum professionals and access to LACMA’s extensive collections enrich the learning experience and inspire career aspirations in the arts.

9. Whitney Museum of American Art Youth Insights Program

The Whitney Museum in New York City provides the Youth Insights Program for high school students interested in contemporary American art.

Interns explore exhibition planning, art criticism, and public programming through projects and discussions with artists and curators.

The program encourages critical thinking and creative expression while understanding modern art movements more deeply.

10.  Walker Art Center Teen Arts Council

Located in Minneapolis, the Walker Art Center’s Teen Arts Council provides high school students with opportunities to shape youth-centered programming and events.

Council members collaborate with museum staff to organize exhibitions, workshops, and performances that reflect their interests and perspectives.

Best Art Internships For High School Students

Let’s talk about the finest art internships for high school students that are sure to be on the boom:

11.  Brooklyn Museum Teen Internship Program

The Brooklyn Museum offers a Teen Internship Program that introduces high school students to museum careers and art-related fields.

Interns gain practical experience in collection management, public programs, and exhibition research while learning from museum professionals.

Workshops and seminars cover topics such as art conservation, cultural heritage, and museum ethics, preparing interns for future academic and professional projects in the arts.

12.  San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) High School Internship Program

SFMOMA’s internship program provides high school students in the Bay Area with opportunities to engage with modern and contemporary art.

Interns work on projects related to exhibition development, visitor engagement, and digital media under the guidance of museum staff.

The program includes workshops, studio visits, and discussions with artists, offering a comprehensive introduction to museum practices and artistic innovation.

13.  Philadelphia Museum of Art Teen Programs

The Philadelphia Museum of Art gives a variety of programs for high school students interested in art and museum studies.

Programs include internships, workshops, and youth councils that focus on art-making, exhibition interpretation, and museum operations.

Participants collaborate with museum educators and curators to explore diverse artistic traditions and develop their skills in visual literacy and cultural understanding.

14.  Denver Art Museum Summer Internship Program

The Denver Art Museum’s Summer Internship Program provides high school students with hands-on experience in museum education, collections management, and public outreach.

Interns assist with gallery installations, educational workshops, and special events while learning about art conservation, exhibition design, and museum administration.

15.  High Museum of Art Teen Team Program

Located in Atlanta, the High Museum of Art’s Teen Team Program engages high school students in museum activities and community outreach.

Teens participate in art-making workshops, gallery tours, and public programs that explore diverse cultures and artistic traditions.

The program encourages leadership skills, critical thinking, and cultural awareness while developing a passion for the arts and museum careers.

Over To You

So, if you’re ready to brush up on your skills (pun intended) and explore your passion for art, why not consider applying for an internship?

It’s a fantastic opportunity to grow as an artist, make connections, and even get a sneak peek into your potential future career path.