This past summer I was afforded the opportunity to intern with SITE Santa Fe’s education and exhibition departments.  This was the ideal internship; I learned much about what it takes for a contemporary museum to exist and thrive among top-class establishments in society.  Even in a flux economy, SITE Santa Fe continuously finds ways to provide the community with highly creative, innovative and intellectually stimulating environments.  The staff is incredible; they welcome everyone with smiles and treat employees like family.  Everyone is respected and a part of the team.

Over the course of the internship, I worked on research projects for artists involved in Sitelines (SITE’s 2014 biennial). I assisted exhibitions in preparing the museum floor and displaying artwork for the artists.  I worked with artist Jason Middlebrook, setting up “Your General Store” which is a barter store made from an old metal shipping container.  This was also a great experience as I gained knowledge and insight about what it takes to be a successful artist.  “You gotta hump!” meaning you have to work hard, really hard.  Not that this came as a surprise but reassured my mojo.

I worked with some incredible people, learned valuable information and gained experience that cannot be traded for.  I appreciate the opportunities given to me at SITE and look forward to teaching with Transitional Education Programs, a program designed to spread knowledge and creative endeavors to the youth of the Santa Fe community.

“An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest.” -Benjamin Franklin.

 

Brandon Birkey