Decorative Arts Curatorial Intern

I heard about this opportunity while studying for my MA in Decorative Art and Historic Interiors. I had undertaken some work experience in museums and galleries, and the internship seemed like an ideal way to progress in a curatorial role.

As well as helping with day-to-day curatorial administration, I worked on publications and exhibitions, and undertook research for different members of the curatorial team. During my internship I was involved in hands-on work, moving and packing objects or condition-checking them. I also gave lectures, taught and dealt with requests for information from members of the public.

This was an amazing opportunity to learn about a working collection, and I gained so much from the responsibility I was given. One of my favourite projects was assisting with the publication of the catalogue raisonné of European Silver in the Royal Collection. Working on so many different aspects of this project gave me a fantastic insight into the way an academic publication is put together.

To succeed in this internship, you must have a true interest in decorative arts and be able to manage your time and priorities efficiently. Excellent research skills are essential, and you need a willingness and enthusiasm to take on any task or challenge.

At the end of my internship I moved on to an Assistant Curator role with another decorative arts collection, and I could not have achieved this without the experience and skills I gained from my Royal Collection Trust internship.