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ArtBound Initiative - Creative Internships in New York

by: ArtBound Initiative

4.54 (85)VerifiedSince 2016

ArtBound Initiative is dedicated to emerging creative professionals. Our mission is to encourage connections between participants, industry leaders, and global companies. Strengthened by our network, ABI provides the opportunity for personalized work experiences in highly insular industries. Placements are available in New York, across communications and advertising, design, entertainment, and visual arts. We also have internships in other global cities – London, Berlin, Melbourne, and Sydney. Launch your career with personalized placements in creative companies. Our program includes: 1. Internship Placement: More than a work experience; activate your career with an internship that has been strategized just for you. 2. The ABI Academy: A comprehensive course to provide each participant with the skills and preparation for success in their internship and career. 3. Network: Access an international network of creative professionals. 4. Travel support: We handle visa processing, accommodation, insurance, and airport pick-up, making your travels as easy as possible.

Program Highlights

Gain access to several New York creative industries, which are notoriously hard to access.

Join our alumni network and become part of an international community of art and design professionals.

Enjoy a seamless experience in New York City, thanks to our complete assistance and visa sponsoring.

Enrich your internship experience with city guides and organized events like artist studio visits, gallery tours, and theater shows.

Become an insider in New York's art and design scene.

Quick Details

Locations:
  • New York, United States
Availability
Year(s) Offered: Year RoundIntern Duration:
  • Summer
  • Winter
  • Short Term
  • Spring
  • 3-6 Months
  • Fall
Age Requirement: 18-30
Types & Subjects
Fields:
  • Art & Fine Arts
  • Art History
  • Communications
  • Creative Writing
  • Fashion Business
  • Fashion Design
  • Graphic Design
  • Journalism
  • Liberal Arts
  • Marketing, Advertising, & PR
  • Media
  • Museum Studies
  • Music
  • Photography
  • Theater, Drama, & Dance
  • Web Design
Guidelines
Nationalities:
  • British
  • Irish
  • Kiwi
  • Australian
  • Canadian
  • American
  • European
See all program details
Last Updated: Jan 13, 2026

Awards

Top Rated Notable Mentions 2022Notable Mention 2021 - Internships Abroad

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about the programs

Overall Rating

4.54

Total Reviews

85

Good professional launchpad into the creative world

August 19, 2026by: Grace - United States
5

Overall, I had a great experience. ABI was super on top of everything throughout the whole process - from the modules, to recruitment, through my actual internship; everyone was very communicative and responsive, which I appreciated. I got my first-choice internship type and location, working as a design intern at a boutique creative marketing agency in NYC. I enjoyed getting a look behind the curtain at all the different aspects of agency life. From a design standpoint, I learned a lot about the intersection between client management and conceptual creative thinking, but I also got to learn a bit about the account management and production side of the agency world too. Overall, the experience gave me a much stronger understanding of agency workflow and the competencies needed to excel in similar settings in the future.

I feel more prepared

August 19, 2026by: Tanasia LaBrew - United States
5

After doing a six-month internship earned through ArtBound, I feel more prepared for the type of work in my industry. Before my start date, I did the ABI Academy, which helped build my interview skills, improve my resume, and helped me understand how the choices I made for my portfolio could affect the quality of opportunities I am offered. During the duration of my internship, I was in constant contact with the program coordinators, who were able to guide me during a period of time when I was having communication issues with my boss at Asia Contemporary Art Forum. My role was web/media designer and curatorial fellow; however, I wore many hats while doing my internship. I feel that I was able to truly learn how to work in a small team, how to take charge and make decisions, and improve my institutional style writing. Though I didn't get to participate in most of the intern gatherings during my internship program, I like that I will always have a community to engage with thanks to ArtBound, now that I am an ABI Alumni.

Photo from the ACAF activation "Tea as Vessel" by Leeza Ahmady as part of "Damask Rose, a Gathering" by Bahar Behbahani, commissioned by Governors Island.

Learned a Lot

June 07, 2026by: Mia Elie - United States
4

Over not a bad experience. I learned a lot and had a great time. I enjoy the help and prep course before the internship placements but I do wish there was more for after your internship ends. Highly recommendall

One of A Kind Experience

January 11, 2026by: Dalton Mosley - United States
4

When I first joined the Artbound Initiative Program, I thought it was too good to be true. Frankly, I thought it was a scam designed to take advantage of young creative professionals who've been discouraged by a job market and political climate that's gradually erasing the value of their passions. I couldn't have been more wrong. The program had everything a young creative needs to get a jumpstart on their career---career guidance, resume & portfolio assistance, frequent communication with advisors and mentors, and most importantly, connections with other interns. They even went the extra mile of helping me find housing and learning the area when I eventually moved to New York for my internship, and the experience I gained there help me take advantage of other opportunities that have come my way. So many doors have opened and I'm glad to have been part of this experience. I hope others can be helped by the Initiative, so long as it remains affordable for them.

Amazing Internship experience in New York, a dream come true for me!

August 21, 2025by: Olivia Cooper - United Kingdom
5

I had the opportunity to intern with a Magazine in NYC through the ABI programme. It has always been a dream of mine to live and work in New York, however I didn't think I would make it a reality until I discovered ABI. They really helped guide me through the process and produce a portfolio and CV that would be desirable for getting hired and specific for the creative industry. It was really nice to have the support and help, especially as someone relocating and having to do the necessary documentation for this. Finding somewhere to live was also very easy and stress free which I appreciated.

Internship in New York was a Great Experience!

April 17, 2025by: Nashaly Rodriguez - United States
5

I was placed in New York, in the city of my choice, within my field of film production. Although my first choice was Script Development, I was placed in a Film Production position. At first, I was a bit disappointed because it wasn't what I wanted at first, but after going through the internship, I realized that it gave me ample experience in production for clients in video making, editing, and client scheduling. The videos we filmed were for promotion for the clients, advertising their products or business, and making a story come to life. Not only was this experience valuable for my career, but the people I met during this experience were absolutely amazing, and I know we will become lifelong friends and partners. Truly a great place to be to start your career in your designated field.

One For The Books

December 01, 2023by: Senthil Kumaran Raja Kumar - Malaysia
4

ArtBound Initiative's summer internship programme has quite possibly altered the trajectory of my entire life, all in a span of 4 months. From the beginning, staff were receptive to my needs and goals for the programme. The coaching process was incredibly empowering, and helped me find my voice which is not easy for people from underrepresented groups in the creative world. The resume and career mentoring sessions allowed me to fine tune the image that I portray to future employers to ensure that I am representing myself authentically and genuinely. The programme advisors were always available to assist with issues that arose and knocked some sense into me when the inevitable imposter syndrome set in. Throughout the whole experience, I felt safe and respected and my growth was the ultimate priority - and grow I did. This programme is thoroughly planned, meticulously executed, and overall an unmissable opportunity for anyone who wants to break into the art world.

View of the New York skyline from The Summit.Picture from an exhibition opening I helped organise.Picture of selected works by my favourite sculptor, Louise Bourgeois, at a field trip I coordinated.
Senthil Kumaran Raja Kumar video

My experience as an intern at New York

September 21, 2023by: Astrid Euceda - Honduras
5

Being part of ABI helped me to excel my skills in the entertainment industry, all my knowledge gained in college and coaching sessions that ABI gave me helped me to feel more confident during my internship.

ABI

September 15, 2023by: lcarballea - United States
4

ABI before the internship was the main kickstart of my career because before onboarding on what it was the actual internship I had to go through ABI Industry Fast Track program which prepared me to find and onboard my internship. So in the end, I would said Art Bound Initiative helped me the most by preparing to front and board my internship in the right and with the right attitude.

New York Internship

September 10, 2023by: Freja - Australia
4

Interning in New York City has always been a dream for me and turned out to be something I will never forget. I met some incredible people and learnt so much about myself and what I want out of a career. Having the support of the ABI network was what really made this experience stand out as I was able to meet people from all over the world who I could explore the city and complete my internship journey with. This program really helped me to explore the industry and see what I was capable of, particularly as someone who often suffers from imposter syndrome.

Great Assistance for a Great Internship

August 15, 2023by: Haylee Lee - South Korea
4

Thanks to ArtBound I was able to connect to many hiring agencies within my desired target field of UX Design. I also had a mock interview session where I was able to get great feedback to better stand out as a candidate. I also believe I was more prepped with a level of professionalism entering the internship due to the coaching I received. Overall, great program that I would recommend to any student entering the creative industry

ABI Experience

July 19, 2023by: Guy Burlinson - Australia
4

I had an exceptional time on my internship program to New York City in April 2023. The ABI coursework sufficiently prepared me to step into my internship with confidence, providing necessary tools to enhance my professional development post-university. I would highly recommend the experience to anyone looking to expand their knowledge of a desired industry, and to make meaningful connections with other passionate creatives in a new environment.

Architecture internship in New York

June 28, 2023by: Amy Liu - Australia
4

Doing an abroad internship with ArtBound Initiative has been a complete life changer. I was provided with readily accessible help and advice and while I was learning and developing skills in my field. It has set me up with future success in architecture after this experience!

Production

June 05, 2023by: Brionna - United States
4

I really enjoyed this experience. It helped me grow into my own when it comes to my career, helped me learn a when it came to production and finally brought me that hands on experience I needed to get started.

Incredible internship opportunity

April 03, 2023by: Edie Tapp - Australia
5

Art Bound Initiative helped me grow in so many ways both personally and professionally during my internship. I was placed in New York with an amazing agency where I learned so much. The onboarding, coaching and support provided by ABI before you begin your internship is truly invaluable and has opened me up to so many opportunities that will benefit me throughout my career. I would recommend ABI to everyone as i had such an incredible experience that i will cherish forever!

My experience interning and living in NYC

January 09, 2023by: Ruby Jean - Australia
4

I recently completed an internship at Jean Doumanian Productions in New York City, and it was the best experience of my life. Not only did I have the opportunity to work on film, TV, and Broadway projects, but I also made lasting friendships that I know will continue long after my internship ended. One of the highlights of my internship was reading and doing script coverage, which allowed me to improve my analytical and critical thinking skills. I also enjoyed the fast pace and diverse culture of the city, which made every day feel exciting and new. Overall, my time at Jean Doumanian Productions was a valuable and rewarding experience. I learned a lot about the entertainment industry and gained valuable skills that will be useful in my future career. I would highly recommend this internship to anyone interested in pursuing a career in film, TV, or theater.

I would say it was successful!

October 27, 2022by: Jessica Manriquez - Mexico
4

I would say it was successful! I was placed in a company that has an environment that will nurture my professional growth by allowing me to further develop some of the skills I have while also practicing new things that I can add to my resume

Internship program!

October 07, 2022by: Sophisab - United States
5

Artbound helped me grow exponentially in both my knowledge and comfortability in the industry. They opened doors for me in incredible ways and have given me amazing opportunities moving forward in my career.

ABI - NY internship

October 03, 2022by: Henrik
4

I stumbled upon the ArtBound Initiative program while looking for an American internship opportunity in the field of marketing and branding. With the help of ABI I was able to reach that goal and intern for an advertising agency in New York during 6 months. I recommend the ABI program to anyone who has the same ambition and would like to have access to a network of creatives. ABI guarantees an internship and their team helps you in every step of the process, from creating an original and professional résumé to the visa application and housing accommodation. The ABI coordinators are very competent and check up on you once in a while to see how the internship is going. You need to be aware that the program is expensive and that most proposed internships are unpaid. This is one negative aspect of the program and should be different for future participants. At the same time, the ArtBound Initiative program made it possible for me to enter the world of advertising and start learning all the basics in the capital of this industry. Thanks to ABI I further developed my professional skills and work experience while also getting to meet other participants and work together with great colleagues.

New York internship

September 29, 2022by: Katherine Smith - United States
5

Artbound initiative is absolutely amazing! They help you prepare so well before you even get your placement. They help curate the best job opportunities based off of your skills and provide mock interviews before. Overall, it was an amazing experience!

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • New York, United States

Types and Subjects

  • Fields
  • Art & Fine Arts
  • Art History
  • Communications
  • Creative Writing
  • Fashion Business
  • Fashion Design
  • Graphic Design
  • Journalism
  • Liberal Arts
  • Marketing, Advertising, & PR
  • Media
  • Museum Studies
  • Music
  • Photography
  • Theater, Drama, & Dance
  • Web Design

Availability

Years Offered: Year Round

Intern Duration:
  • Summer
  • Winter
  • Short Term
  • Spring
  • 3-6 Months
  • Fall

Age Requirement

18-30

Guidelines

Nationalities:
  • British
  • Irish
  • Kiwi
  • Australian
  • Canadian
  • American
  • European

Program Cost Includes

  • Tuition & Fees
  • Pre-Departure Orientation
  • On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
  • In-Country Orientation
  • Course Materials
  • Alumni / Networking Membership
  • Internship Placement
  • Job Search Support
  • Certificate of Completion

Accommodation Options

  • Apartment/Flat
  • Independent living

Qualifications & Experience

    Language Skills Required

  • English

    Accepted Education Levels

  • University Sophomore (2nd Year)
  • University Junior (3rd Year)
  • University Senior (4th Year)
  • University 5th Year or More
  • Associate degree
  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Master’s degree
  • Trade/technical/vocational training

Application Procedures

  • Essay
  • Online Application
  • Phone/Video Interview
  • Resume
  • Written Application

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I have a guaranteed internship offer?

Yes! ABI will guarantee an internship offer within your destinations and fields of interest. Both destinations and fields of interest will be defined and confirmed during your application interview. If you decide not to move forward with the internship offer provided by our program, we will be in no obligation to guarantee an alternative offer.

What will I learn in the ABI Academy?

The ABI Academy is designed to give you highly valuable skills on how to search for a job, write a resume and prepare your portfolio, interview, perform well in your position, and network for your future career.

Are start dates and durations flexible?

The duration of the internships ranges from 2-6 months and start dates are flexible. For local programs, applications are due 3 months prior to your intended start date. For international programs, applications are due 6 months prior to your intended start date.

Interviews

Read interviews from alumni or staff

Samantha Haase

Samantha Haase

Participated in 2021

Alumni

I stayed local for my internship, but I still feel that traveling abroad is important. I think going abroad is important culturally, as immersing yourself in other people's way of life is crucial to expanding your perspective on the world. 

Show Full Interview
Stefano Langiu

Stefano Langiu

Participated in 2022

Alumni

I wanted to challenge myself and step out of my comfort zone. 

Show Full Interview

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