Art History Internships in Portugal

1. Brief description of the host company/ organisation and supervisor(s) ERITAGE Studio Gallery is a vibrant contemporary art space in Lisbon that champions artistic plurality and uses art as a tool for human development and corporate engagement. It is a dynamic hub where international exhibitions foster intercultural dialogue. The gallery is led by its Founder and Creative Director, Joao Marcus Cavalcanti—a former finance professional from Rio de Janeiro who transitioned to gallerist in Portugal. He has built a remarkable cultural bridge between Brazil, Portugal, and Africa through artist residencies and shared productions. Committed to social dialogue and sustainability, Cavalcanti steers ERITAGE as a space where contemporary art intersects with social consciousness, making it an incredibly inspiring environment to learn from. 2. Your job duties, contributions and accomplishments My role as a Public Relations Intern was varied. My main responsibility was social media content creation and curation. I created and scheduled engaging visual content for Instagram including photography, reels and behind-the-scenes stories to promote current exhibitions and artists, greatly increasing the gallery's online engagement. I also carried out extensive research and reporting on galleries, visiting contemporary art spaces across Lisbon, looking at curatorial strategies and producing detailed reports that fed into our strategic programming. I provided direct support during the installation and de-installation of exhibitions, including handling artworks, setting lighting and display materials, and the safe packing and storage of works. These contributions have given me a holistic view of gallery operations from the public facing promotion to the physical logistics that take place behind the scenes. 3. Difficulties encountered during the internship (if any) The internship was not without its challenges. Professionally, I was initially daunted by the physicality of the role – in Hong Kong, gallery assistants rarely engage in manual construction, but here I was drilling into gallery walls to hang installations, meaning I had to learn proper techniques from scratch. Culturally, the language barrier was sometimes tough, as many locals do not speak fluent English outside of the tourism sector. I had to use hand gestures and basic Portuguese phrases. The city’s notorious topography, built on seven steep hills, was a real workout when commuting. This was personally my first experience living in an 8 bedroom flat with 7 other flat mates which really tested my patience and communication skills on a daily basis as well as bouts of homesickness over the holidays. 4. Knowledge/ skills/ benefits acquired from the internship I have learned a great deal professionally. I deepened my understanding of the artists' backgrounds, creative processes, and thematic concerns, which greatly enriched my appreciation for Portuguese art history and its cultural context. Translating these insights into words, I had the rewarding opportunity to write articles for the gallery's official Substack account—crafting engaging narratives that bridged the artists' visions with our audience, and sharpening my ability to communicate complex artistic ideas with clarity and warmth. On the practical side, I also gained hands-on technical skills in the safe installation and de-installation of artworks, from precise measuring and levelling to correct wrapping, safe transport, and meticulous inventory documentation—skills I never imagined I would learn but now value immensely. Most notably, I developed invaluable interpersonal and adaptability skills, learning to think quickly on my feet when my supervisor assigned last-minute work, and consistently delivering quality output under pressure without losing my composure. 5. Insights into the culture and people of the destination What impressed me most about Lisbon was not just its postcard beauty but its emotional depth, a kind of poetic melancholy that the Portuguese call saudade. This bittersweet longing is in the air all over the city, most distinctly in the plaintive guitar of Fado music drifting from dimly lit taverns, but it does not weigh down the culture. Instead it coexists with an extraordinary warmth and a deep sense of community. I loved the neighborhood life, like in Alfama, where old ladies gossip across clothes-lined balconies, and in the Santos Populares festivities, whole streets become open-air banquets, with neighbors grilling sardines together. The locals taught me desenrascanço — the uniquely Portuguese ability to improvise with charm and resourcefulness. They’re not on the clock, but on the clock of the golden descent of the sun over the Tagus River, valuing human connection over relentless efficiency. Whether it’s a long coffee in a quiet pastelaria or an informal greeting from shopkeepers, Lisboetas are quietly resilient and welcoming, making me feel less like a foreigner and more like a temporary piece of their lively, unhurried story.

I had the opportunity to participate in a study abroad with Arizona State University and Absolute Internship. We spent our time in Portugal exploring different parts of the country and learning about it's deep history and global impact. It was an experience I would love to live again and has inspired a desire to explore more parts of the world!

My experience abroad was something I will always be grateful for. The internship gave me valuable professional experience and allowed me to learn what it is like to work in a different country and culture. I was able to gain hands-on experience in both warehouse and office environments, which helped me better understand logistics and supply chain operations. One of my favorite parts of the program was the weekend trips around Portugal. Getting to explore different cities and places with the other students made the experience even more memorable. The people I met through the program were one of the biggest highlights, and many of them have become lifelong friends. Overall, this experience pushed me outside of my comfort zone, helped me become more independent, and gave me memories and relationships that I will carry with me long after the internship ended. I would highly recommend this program to anyone looking for a mix of professional growth, travel, and an opportunity to meet great people.

This past summer I had the ultimate privilege of going abroad for a Marketing and Business Development Intern in Lisbon, Portugal. To say I had the one of the best summers of my life is an understatement, working in a city as beautiful and vibrant as Portugal was a such a rewarding experience both professionally and personally.

I signed up for an internship in a non-profit industry. Absolute Internship helped me arrange an interview with the company. They also gave us a lot of information and reminders before going to Lisbon. During the internship, Absolute Internship arranged nice accommodation and fun weekend activities for us. For example, we lived in single rooms with AC and the furniture in the room is clean and cozy. The program staff are friendly and supportive. They answered our questions throughout the program and arranged activities well. For example, we had a boat trip during Lagos trip and had meals in nice restaurants.

My experience in Lisbon was deeply meaningful because of the cultural immersion, the diversity of engagement, and the chance to strengthen my Portuguese language skills. Working alongside people from different backgrounds showed me how powerful unity and service can be. We were all part of something bigger, doing meaningful work for a kinder world built on compassion, dignity, and love.

My internship experience in Lisbon was truly meaningful and something I’m deeply grateful for. Being welcomed into a new culture, learning through real community engagement, and growing both personally and professionally made this experience unforgettable. I felt supported, challenged, and inspired every day. The warmth of the people, the cultural connections, and the chance to contribute in a nonprofit setting all had a powerful impact on me. This experience helped me grow in confidence, independence, and purpose, and I’m thankful for every moment.

My internship abroad as a microbiology intern was an amazing experience. Absolute Internship provided incredible support, and my mentors were always encouraging. The cultural activities helped me meet friends for life, and I grew both professionally and personally in ways that will stay with me forever.

My time in Portugal was fun and nerve wrecking. However, I miss it so much and would love to do it again. It made me very independent and helped gain expertise in a working environment. Also I enjoyed the activities I did with the whole team. I wish my university had told me how important these were do I would’ve paid for the extra activities as it was not included in my package.

I did an on-site internship with absolute in Lisbon Portugal and it was amazing. The accommodation and facilities provided were top quality and all the activities outside the internship were extremely organised. The coordinators had also made a great match between me and my employer. I have made an amazing connections with the law firm I worked with and the students I met. I would recommend this experience to anyone !

We were hesitant about sending our daughter so far away to "reset" herself. High school wasn't a successful four years and we desperately something for her to believe in her abilities again. Wow....did this program do that! The closeness of the group and support from the organization turned our daughter around. She loved the adventure and thrived both personally and professionally. The communication from the team was super. I reached out whenever I needed anything, and they were quick to respond. Who won't regret this adventure for your child or yourself.

I participated in Spanish Gap Year's Future Leaders program in the fall of 2024 and I had the most amazing experience. We started out in Madrid for the first 4 weeks and stayed with a host family. While in Madrid we took Spanish classes at Tandem. Tandem is so amazing and I had the absolute best time there. For the last 8 weeks we stayed in Barcelona and had internships. Barcelona is so beautiful and fun to explore so there was never a dull moment. If I could, I would do this program all over again.

I highly recommend Absolute for anyone considering an international internship experience! My internship in Lisbon, Portugal, was incredibly enriching. I made lifelong friends through work, immersed myself in Portuguese culture, and got to see countless amazing places. Lisbon itself is a fantastic place to live and work, with its unique blend of city life, beaches, nightlife, rich history and culture, and beautiful natural scenery. The people here are warm and friendly, and I felt so welcomed everywhere I went. I wish I’d known more Portuguese before coming, but I picked up so much during my time here! Navigating the city was easy, thanks to its excellent public transportation system, which made it simple to explore Lisbon and beyond. Absolute went above and beyond to organize cultural activities and trips, adding so much value to our stay and helping us feel at home in this amazing city. The Absolute staff was also very accessible, always available to discuss any questions or concerns. They even organized mixers where we could connect with coordinators and fellow interns, which helped us build relationships and made our experience even more enjoyable. If you're considering an international internship, I can’t recommend Absolute and Portugal enough!

The best thing you need to know about Linguistic Horizons is the great support system. I often communicated with Nicole from the start of my application, my departure and all the way to the end of my internship, and she was absolutely fantastic. So nice, friendly and helpful and willing to hear you out always! I had some issues with finances and my placement and she sorted it out like nothing. I would recommend this experience not only because of the the prospects of being abroad and immersion, but for the cultural and work life that awaits you. Loved everything about my experience and I'm sure you will too!

Linguistic Horizons responded to this reviewDecember 20, 2024

Thank you, Angellah! I'm so glad you joined us in London!

The beginning of my journey abroad was filled with adjustments. Entering new environments had its fair share of challenges. Navigating how to allocate time for myself, enjoying the company of new friends and settling into my internship all required a balance to be struck. Although this time abroad was a step out of my conform zone, it has allowed me not only to gain experience in the non profit field but also grow on an individual level. I have had to the chance to disconnect to learn more about myself and how I may begin to picture my future. I have had the ability to grow a more profound appreciation for life and all the little moments it has to offer. This opportunity has granted me to gain insight into the working of the Housing First Project and the remarkable work it yields. I have had the chance to be welcomed into the Crescer organization even if it was just for a short time. A team of passionate and driven individuals who have truly been an inspiration to me. Most importantly, I have had the privilege to have gotten to know the people participating in the project. They have welcomed me not only into their homes but also into their hearts. An unforgettable experience that wouldn’t be possible without the Absolute Internship Company. Their guidance helped immensely with the adjustment as well as facilitating opportunities to explore the beauty that Portugal undoubtedly has to offer.

It was a great experience, however I do think it is geared towards people with little to no work experience and did not meet all my expectations of learning something new in a new work environment. The best part was being able to practice my Spanish with my host family.

CIEE provided me with a great internship site, a clean and nice apartment in a good neighborhood, and gave me roommates who shared similar interests. The staff was extremely kind and helped me whenever I needed, and were good about checking in with me about my experiences

The Spanish classes alone provided a ton of hands on learning. However, the entrepreneurship and internship portions are what provided a level of experience that has changed my life. With the internship portion you are given the opportunity to explore a field of your interests while making connections within the field and learning real business and work skills. The entrepreneurial portion provided invaluable experience where one can create and chase their ideas while working with mentors who have real credible experience. The skills of forming, creating, and pitching an idea as a real world entrepreneur is invaluable. You will learn public speaking, networking, how to ask for help, what works and what doesn’t with business, and a million other practical real world skills.

The Spanish Gap Year staff is incredibly diligent, knowledgeable and caring, and this combination fosters an incredible environment to explore future career opportunities alongside a group of peers while immersing yourself in a new country. The program balances busy days that bring together Spanish language, entrepreneurship and individualized internships with plenty of independence to explore the cities you live in as well as the rest of Spain and even other parts of Europe if you choose! The support from program leaders in helping me fulfill my individual goals for the experience was truly one of a kind and I learned so much during 3 months, both in the classroom and in terms of maturity and independence from living in foreign cities. I would 100% recommend this program to anyone who has ambitious future goals, wants to expand their worldview, and is looking for a tight-knit group of peers to explore with!

From the application process to our time in Lisbon, the Absolute staff was extremely helpful and supportive. One unique aspect that stood out to me about this program was how focused and personalized the internship placement process is to your career interests. The housing, trips, and program activities are extremely well-planned. Some of the things I did in Lisbon included a pastel de nata baking class, a fado show, and a Portuguese play. Our trips included going to Sintra, Porto, Cascais, and Ericeira. Lastly, my program coordinator (shout out to Marta) was beyond dedicated to showing us Portugal. My 2 months wouldn't have been the same without her!