Latino Museum Studies Program
The Interpretation of Latino Visual and Material Culture
July 2 – August 10, 2012
Program Overview
Organized by the Smithsonian Latino Center (SLC), the Latino Museum Studies Program (LMSP) was created in 1994 to increase the representation, documentation, research, knowledge and interpretation of Latino art, culture and history. This program focuses on developing museum practice within a framework of Latino cultural studies and is offered in two parts.
The first component (July 2 – July 13) is designed to enhance leadership, research and creative skills through a series of lectures, workshops, interactive discussions and behind-the-scenes tours of Smithsonian museums and collections. Participants will have the opportunity to meet and exchange ideas with Smithsonian and non-Smithsonian professionals. Curators, researchers, historians, archivists and professors will lead interactive and lively tours and discussions providing participants a unique opportunity to see and hear first-hand the best practices in museums and cultural centers. Additionally, the program will provide an ideal platform to promote the diverse perspectives, fields of study, ethnic backgrounds and experiences of the participants and the faculty.
Applicants have the opportunity to apply for one of ten practicum projects (July 14 – August 10) that will be offered on a competitive basis. Selected participants will remain in Washington to work with a Smithsonian unit on a specific research project. This year the SLC is excited to partner with the National Trust for Historic Preservation located in Washington, D.C. and the Smithsonian Affiliated Frost Art Museum at Florida International University in Miami, FL to offer two additional projects. Smithsonian units participating in the practicum include: Smithsonian Latino Center, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage, National Museum of American History and National Museum of Natural History. See below for a complete list and description of practicum projects.
Mission
The Latino Museum Studies Program provides a national forum for graduate students to share, explore and discuss the representation and interpretation of Latino cultures in the context of the American experience. It provides a unique opportunity to meet and engage with Smithsonian professionals, scholars from renowned universities, and with leaders in the museum field.
Goals
Share and promote Smithsonian Latino collections and resources
Contribute to current research and program development at the Smithsonian
Highlight Smithsonian museum practices and methodologies
Discuss, explore and expand the methodologies of interpreting visual and material culture in the context of the Latino experience and narrative
Develop new ways of thinking and broaden the understanding of fundamental museum issues
Create a network among participants, Smithsonian staff, guest faculty and program alumni
Seminar Dates:July 2 – July 13, 2012
Practicum Dates:July 14 – August 10, 2012
Selection Criteria
LMSP is open to graduate students enrolled or engaged in the fields of Latino and Latin American art, culture and history; these include but are not limited to visual arts, sociology, performing arts, literature, cultural anthropology and related studies. Successful candidates should have an active interest in theoretical and practical issues related to museum fields or cultural centers and have original ideas to contribute regarding the representation and interpretation of Latino visual and material culture.
Fees and Expenses
Participation is free and includes accommodations for the duration of the program, as well as the cost of round-trip travel to Washington, D.C. Participants are responsible for all other expenses, including transportation within the city and meals. A modest stipend will be provided to participants who are selected to participate in the four-week practicum component.
Application Process
Complete and submit the online application form. All information must be submitted in English. The link to the Smithsonian Online Academic Appointment System (SOLAA) is https://solaa.si.edu
Request two letters of recommendation. Letters should address why the candidate is an appropriate fit for the program and should be posted to the SOLAA site by the April 6 deadline. The recommender will be notified via email and receive uploading instructions.
Deadline for Application:5 pm EST, April 6, 2012
Application Guidelines
Online Application
Practicum Descriptions
Frequently Asked Questions
