The Thomas Cole National Historic Site (TCNHS) is now reviewing applications for the Cole fellowship, a one-year, residential fellowship at the Thomas Cole National Historic site. Fellows participate in the research and interpretation of the work, home, and studios of the artist, Thomas Cole (1801 – 1848). Four candidates are invited to join the site June 3, 2020 – May 23, 2021. Applications will be accepted through February 10, 2020, with priority given to those received before or on JANUARY 24, 2020.

The Thomas Cole National Historic Site (TCNHS) preserves and interprets the home and studios of Thomas Cole, the founder of the Hudson River School of painting, the nation’s first art movement. Cole’s profound influence on America’s cultural landscape inspires us to engage broad audiences through programs and exhibitions that are relevant today.

Through a combination of research, interpretation, and hands-on projects, Cole Fellows conduct significant research and gain professional museum experience. Selected candidates are provided the opportunity to:

• Conduct in-depth research that leads to a major project and /or paper based on their work.
• Attend an intensive one-week seminar with the leading Cole scholar and Professor, Dr. Alan Wallach.
• Lead tours of the historic site, galleries, and have full engagement in interpretive programming.
• Work closely with the Curator, and other TCNHS staff on projects that may include collection care and research, exhibition planning, educational programming, and special events.
• Participate in various events and site-wide staff meetings to learn about the structural, strategic, and creative decisions involved in the day-to-day operations of a historic artists’ house museum.
• Attend monthly field trips and site visits to museums and cultural venues; benefit from professional development opportunities including resume review and next step planning based on individual career goals.

Additional Compensation: Free shared housing on-site in a fully furnished house with private bedrooms. Electric, water, heat, internet, and garbage removal is provided, along with a monthly stipend of $500.

Qualifications: TCNHS seeks self-motivated recent graduates, graduating college seniors, and graduate students who have expressed a commitment to pursue careers in history, art, museums, material culture, decorative arts, collection and exhibition management, and/or education. Applicants should be flexible, organized, energetic, have a passion for art and ideas, and an affinity for working with the public. A car is helpful, but not required.  Participation for the entire program is required. The work-week in season is Wednesday-Sunday.

APPLICATIONS will be accepted through February 10, 2020, with priority given to those received before or on JANUARY 24, 2020.

Applications must include:

• Brief letter of introduction describing your interest in the Fellowship and career goals
• Resume
• References – Include the names and full contact information for 3 people (professors, teachers, and/or employers only)
• Writing sample (2 to 5 pages MAX please)

Click here to learn more about this opportunity and to apply!