What is art? Is it a representation of political climates, celestial bodies, or day-to-day scenes? The profound works of Michaelangelo, Guayasamín, and van Gogh inspire many with their innovative techniques and poetic inspirations. Why not learn to peel back the cultural, historical, geographic layers of art even more with an internship abroad? Art history internships abroad offer valuable opportunities to study art from different perspectives while gaining international experience to further your career path.
Art history internships abroad are about more than spending time in museums — but there WILL be a lot of time spent there.
While university classes will teach you a lot about art, recognizing artistic authenticity and appraising treasures takes some time and practice. From galleries to museums and universities to organizations, you’ll find a range of institutions in all corners of the world looking for interns. You’ll have the chance to get an up close and personal look at art while developing new skills. Brush up on your studies and sculpt yourself an adventure with one of these art history internships abroad!
Where to go for art history internships abroad
1. Italy
From Raphael to da Vinci, Italy boasts some of the most legendary artists of all time, making it a hub for art historians. Not only that, but the romantic cities of Rome, Florence, or Venice offer a variety of institutions for art history interns. The most popular city for art history internships — Florence — offers a chance to live, work, and study in the birthplace of the Renaissance.
Many art history internship programs also provide cooking classes and Italian classes for interns on the side. Italy is a dream place for art history internships thanks to artistic landmarks and expansive museums!
Recommended programs:
2. Spain
Spain is full of incredible art history.
The works of Dalí, Velasquez, Goya, and so many more Spanish artists stun patrons every day. You’ll find a juicy plethora of art history internships in Spain, AKA “La Furia Roja.” The ample amount of galleries and museums in cities like Barcelona that have been around for thousands of years make Spain a hotspot for art history enthusiasts.
Bonus: Learn the flamenco, pick up some Spanish, and hang on the beaches — all social opportunities for networking, amiright? You can even find art museum internships that are solely for English speakers or challenge yourself to learn more advanced Spanish skills.
Recommended programs:
- Intern in Barcelona with Connect-123!
- Customized Internships and Spanish Immersion
- View ALL Art History Internships in Spain
3. France
What better place for art history internships than in one of the most popular places for lots of famous art — the Louvre in Paris?! Imagine the masterpieces of the Mona Lisa, the Venis de Milo, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace surrounding you on a daily basis!
Many programs in France can customize your art history internship based on your background, goals, and interests. You can even opt for a homestay experience to learn more French while immersing yourself in the culture. You’ll gain a competitive edge after you develop some haute art history skills here.
Recommended programs:
- Internships Abroad: A Lifetime Experience!
- Custom Internship Placements in Europe
- View ALL Art History Internships in France
4. England
You’ll explore a ton of the past, no matter where your internship is!
England teems with historic sites that would make any art historian giggle with delight, from the Tower of London to Westminster Abbey to the Roman Baths. Interns also love the amount of public transportation available that make it easy to commute and see the sights.
You can also find many internships at museums and galleries here as well to develop your skills and broaden your knowledge. Many programs provide tours to Cambridge, Stonehenge, Salisbury, and other nearby places. People come from all over the world to England, so you’ll be expanding your international perspectives even more through new connections!
Recommended programs:
- ISA Study Abroad in London, England
- Intern in London with Absolute Internship
- View ALL Art History Internships in England
5. Ireland
Some artwork in Ireland dates back 5,000 years — even before the pyramids of Egypt! Romans and Scandinavians left their marks on Irish art, but Celtic history helped to revive Irish visual arts. Many art history internships in Ireland are in Dublin where interns can work in a variety of settings like galleries and museums doing projects.
Some programs even pair interns with staff in a tutorial arrangement to help them develop their skills even more. From the medieval castles to the majestic cathedrals, Ireland’s artwork and architecture will surround you with plenty to see and do during your internship!
Recommended programs:
- Museum & Art Gallery Internships in Dublin
- International Internships in Dublin
- View ALL Art History Internships in Ireland
6. Argentina
European-style architecture along cobble-stoned streets in a Latin American country? Yes, please! Dance the tango, learn some Spanish, and immerse yourself in the gaucho culture. Many art history internships are in Buenos Aires (the “Paris of the South”) where you’ll be able to explore palaces, museums, and theatres.
Many programs will also customize your internship with local families and speaking partners to help you improve your Spanish. Some programs even offer opportunities to visit nearby countries like Uruguay for an even more robust experience.
Recommended programs:
- CAPA Buenos Aires: Study & Intern Abroad
- Tailor-made Internship in Buenos Aires
- View ALL Art History Internships in Argentina
7. Australia
Australia is notorious for cool art history museums.
While many think of Australia as the land of koalas and kangaroos, Oz’s art history is varied with Aboriginal works of rock paintings and natural tools. More contemporary art in Australia takes many references from European influences, so you’ll see a gambit of styles!
Melbourne is the more popular place for art museum internships thanks to a strong art scene enriched in the area and the National Gallery of Victoria and Melbourne Museum. Whether you intern in Sydney, Perth, or Cairns, every region has something to offer in your free time, from beaches to mountains to deserts. Plus, you’ll likely meet people from all over the world here!
Recommended programs:
- Internships in Australia
- Global Explorer Program: Intern, Learn, Lead, Grow & Travel
- View ALL Art History Internships in Australia
8. China
The art in China spans millennia, from paintings to calligraphy to sculptures. From the pagodas to the temples to the palaces, the myriad of artistic styles and influences have stood the test of time. Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Beijing boast a plethora of available internships at museums with many ancient treasures.
The mixture of ancient influences and modern technologies in China will fo’ sho’ help you develop strong career skills. Plus, who wouldn’t want to learn the skills behind feng shui? That’ll come in handy for setting up art gallery spaces!
Recommended programs:
- Intern in Shanghai with Absolute Internship
- China Internship with Meiji Internships
- View ALL Art History Internships in China
Not convinced? Talk to our Online Advisor for FREE and get matched with 5 art history internships that are perfect for you!
Internships at museums will advance your art history career
Art museum internships are some of the most unique experiences abroad!
Many art history internships abroad are flexible with the length and availability, and you can also gain college credits or volunteering experience. Not only will you grow in the field of art history, but you’ll also develop international skills by participating in an art history internship abroad. Many programs will also teach interns valuable skills in creating a resume, participating in an interview, and developing connections.
With the experience you gain for your art history internship, you can go down a path to enlighten, educate, deal, and more. Many art historians can go on to be an archivist, art dealer, interior designer, or museum curator! Crack that da Vinci code, see the Girl with a Pearl Earring in a new light, and discover Picasso’s techniques. Wherever you decide to do an art history internship abroad, you’ll develop a new appreciation for art.
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