Biennial Production and Exhibitions Assistant Internship

FotoFest, a Houston-based contemporary arts organization, is seeking a part-time Biennial Production and Exhibitions Assistant.

Biennial Production and Exhibitions Assistants are essential members of FotoFest’s Exhibitions and Curatorial teams. They are involved throughout all stages of the exhibition process, including research for exhibitions and public programs, learning proper care and handling of photographs, acquiring basic framing and preparation skills, assisting with installation, supporting administrative tasks, and gaining firsthand experience of day-to-day operations of a non-profit arts organization.

This role is ideal for individuals interested in pursuing professional careers in photography, visual arts, art history, curatorial practice, arts administration, non-profit art spaces, commercial galleries, or as practicing artists.

The 2026 Biennial will celebrate FotoFest’s 40-year legacy, reflecting on its evolution and impact as an organization.

Duration

• Summer/Fall 2025
• Total hours: 120

Compensation

This position offers a $1200 stipend upon completion of 120 hours and is eligible for college credit.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants must:

• Be an undergraduate or graduate student currently enrolled in—or recently graduated from—bachelor’s or master’s programs in Studio Art, Art History, Curatorial Studies, or related fields in contemporary art
• Live in or relocate to the Houston or surrounding area
• Have reliable transportation
• Have a reliable laptop capable of internet connection and simultaneously running multiple programs

Qualifications 

• In-depth knowledge of contemporary art, artists, theory, and institutional practices.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with confidence in public speaking and liaising with artists, galleries, and arts professionals.
• High level of integrity and professionalism in all interactions.
• Proficient in word processing, spreadsheets, research, and database management.
• A strong willingness to learn and adapt in a dynamic environment.

Responsibilities

The Biennial Production and Exhibitions Assistant will support the Exhibitions team in the development and implementation of exhibitions and related programming for the 2026 FotoFest Biennial. This hands-on role includes both administrative and production tasks that are essential to the exhibition-making process.

Primary duties include:

• Assisting with the unpacking, packing, and handling of incoming and outgoing artworks.
• Supporting exhibition layout planning and on-site installation.
• Assisting with entry-level framing and artwork preparation.
• Helping coordinate, edit, and design exhibition text materials, including wall labels, didactics, and checklists.
• Copyediting exhibition-related texts for clarity and consistency.
• Conducting research on artists and artworks for upcoming exhibitions and programs.
• Creating and maintaining artist and exhibition files (digital and physical).
• Supporting the curatorial team with checklist maintenance, condition reporting, and production of wall labels.

Note: This position may require moderate physical activity, including lifting up to 30 lbs, standing for extended periods, and assisting with the movement of exhibition materials.

Apply

Interested candidates should submit the following in PDF format:

• CV/Resume
• A letter of interest (Approximately 300-500 words)

Please send materials to FotoFest associate curator Madi Murphy at madi@fotofest.org with the subject line “Biennial Production and Exhibitions Assistant.”

Note: We encourage individuals from all backgrounds and identities to apply, even if they do not meet 100% of the listed requirements. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.