This internship, funded by a grant from the Mid-America Arts Alliance, is a fieldwork-based internship offered by Arkansas Folk and Traditional Arts (AFTA). The intern will be expected to conduct outreach and fieldwork in the Arkansas Delta to expand AFTA’s archival collections and presence in the region (especially for AFTA’s Apprenticeship Program and Folk Arts Web Series). The intern will be expected to conduct interviews with at least ten folk arts-related contacts (artists or individuals in organizations). Additional duties include visiting potential significant events and locations during the fieldwork process. Interviews and site visits should be documented with photographs and field notes.
The intern will work with AFTA’s Folk Arts Fieldwork Coordinator to develop guiding questions and outreach aims. Professional equipment will be provided to the intern during the internship. Internship deliverables include audio interviews, field notes, photographs, a spreadsheet of contacts, a final internship reflection/report, and any additional documentation as appropriate.
Minimum Qualifications:
- High school diploma
- Demonstrated experience with community outreach and/or cultural heritage documentation
- Valid driver’s license
Preferred Qualifications:
- Advanced post-secondary coursework in a field related to folklore, history, anthropology, oral history, heritage, or similar field
- Experience working with Arkansas Delta traditional arts
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Familiarity with Microsoft Word and Excel
- Effective oral, written, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently and without direct supervision
- Previous experience with audio recording equipment or interviewing
- Knowledge of Arkansas Delta traditional arts
How to Apply:
Interested applicants can apply online. Learn more information here.