Summer Sculpture Conservation Internship Program

Each summer the Hirshhorn Museum Conservation Department implements a maintenance program for the outdoor sculpture collection.  For summer 2007, the museum is offering several paid technician positions, available to students entered in art conservation or college level art programs.  The technical positions last twelve consecutive 40-hour weeks, from June 4 to August 24, 2008.

Description of Outdoor Sculpture Collection

The Hirshhorn Museum has more than seventy sculptures situated throughout its sculpture garden and plaza areas.  The objects, which range in size from three to more than sixty feet in height, are made from a variety of materials including stone, bronze, iron, aluminum, and steel.

Maintenence Conservation

The outdoor sculptures receive annual maintenance conservation treatments that may include detergent washing, walnut shell abrasive cleaning, protective surface coatings, repainting, and structural repairs.  The work is performed mostly outdoors, with some work being done on the indoor sculptures as required.  The outdoor work is strenuous, and done in a summer climate that is hot and humid.

Stipends

Technicians will receive stipends in the amount of $3,200 for twelve consecutive 40-hour weeks.

Applications must be received no later than March 16, 2008.  They should include educational background and art-related work experience.  Send applications to:                                        
           
Conservation Summer Technician Program
c/o Lee Aks, Sculpture Conservator
Smithsonian Institution
PO Box 37012
Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden
Room G-40, MRC 354
Washington, D.C. 20013-7012