As an art ambassador for the past two years, the Escalette Summer Internship was always on my radar, but I never jumped to apply. This past spring, wanting an internship lined up for the summer before senior year, I saw the Escalette post its application – and that began a wonderful summer to remember.

Before starting in June, I knew my area of focus was “researching and writing,” but the internship was way more than I could have hoped for. From cataloguing items, cleaning outdoor sculptures, and researching and writing labels for an exhibition that many will see, this summer was a memorable snapshot of what the museum and collections industry is like. And as someone majoring in art history, this internship couldn’t have been more perfect.

Traveling to the Getty Conservation Institute (GCI) at the Getty Center and UCI’s Langston Art Museum was a memorable part of this internship. Listening to the Langston’s curator speak about her process and the GCI staff give us a tour of their facilities reminded me how integral this industry is and how many people play a part in it. I felt very seen knowing these people shared the same love for preserving, storytelling, and making art accessible.

Nicole and Rylie visiting the Getty Conservation Institute at the Getty Center.

One of the major projects I worked on with my fellow summer intern, Nicole, was curating an exhibition of art by Steve Roden in the 3rd floor of Beckman Hall. Working with Roden’s work was challenging yet inspiring. It felt like a scavenger hunt, referencing his exhibition catalogs and reputable websites to find quotes or themes that resonated with us. He was so intentional with his craft and made his work with such curiosity and care that I couldn’t be more honored to work with the creations of an incredible artist. With this exhibition, I can only hope people can glimpse his fascinating mind. It was a challenge, but I am glad to have worked with Nicole to curate a show we are so proud of.

Nicole and Rylie printing wall labels for Sensation, their exhibition featuring work by Steve Roden on the 3rd Floor of Beckman.

I will fondly remember this internship as it solidified my desire to work in the museum industry and to keep being curious. Thank you, Jessica and Fiona, for making this summer one to remember! The Escalette would not be where it is without your fearless determination and love for the arts. If you are considering working with the Escalette, whether as a student worker, art ambassador, or intern, do it. You will not regret it!

We invite you to explore all the works in the Escalette Collection by visiting our eMuseum. 

Wilkinson College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences is the proud home of the Phyllis and Ross Escalette Permanent Collection of Art. The Escalette Collection exists to inspire critical thinking, foster interdisciplinary discovery, and strengthen bonds with the community. Beyond its role in curating art in public spaces, the Escalette is a learning laboratory that offers diverse opportunities for student and engagement and research, and involvement with the wider community. The collection is free and open to the public to view.