Tag: Monument Lab

A Day in My Life at Monument Lab

Semester: Spring 2024

Praxis Course: HART B420 Museum Studies Fieldwork Seminar

Faculty Advisor: Matthew Feliz

Field Site: Monument Lab

Field Supervisor: Cleary Rubinos

Praxis Poster: 

MJ Praxis_Poster_Final S24

 

Further Context:

This semester I worked at Monument Lab as an  Administration and Operations Intern. Monument Lab is a Philly-based nonprofit public art and history studio that seeks to change and challenge public art through installations and public programming. As part of the Operations team, I worked mostly behind the scenes to help Monument Lab run effectively and efficiently. It was really interesting to learn about all of the somewhat hidden and very necessary tasks that go on behind the scenes of an arts-based nonprofit organization. I was able to observe and participate in a variety of departmental meetings, and additionally completed three larger projects during my internship at Monument Lab.

My first project was to find suitable vendors that might be interested in selling Monument Lab publications and internships. Monument Lab currently has a virtual store; I was looking for secondary in-person options. To complete this, I compiled a database of contemporary art museum gift shops and independent bookstores. I recently looked back at this undertaking, and I had found 135 potential locations!

My second project was assisting with the redecoration of the new office space. I sorted posters, found frames, cut out newspaper clippings for a “In the News” wall, and installed shelving inserts. It was fun to have a more hands-on project and rewarding to see the vision come together. As a nonprofit, it is important that the office space of Monument Lab be comfortable and usable for employees as well as inviting for new artists or donors, reflecting the mission and values of the organization.

To the same purpose, my final project involved working with the Monument Lab directory, a huge database of nearly everyone that the organization has interacted with, almost since inception. Due to some limitations of the current platform, the system needed to be cleaned up and prepared for a transfer to a new client relationship manager. While slightly outside of my wheelhouse, this was a very interesting project to help with and I certainly picked up some new skills.

I really enjoyed my time at Monument Lab, and am very grateful for all of the opportunities for growth and learning that I was given. It was rewarding to work with the Operations department and I really enjoyed my behind-the-scenes perspective of the organization. The Monument Lab mission is inspiring and it has been impactful to see everything that we have been learning in the fieldwork seminar reflected in real life.

Monument Lab

Semester: Spring 2024

Praxis Course: HART B420 Museum Studies Fieldwork Seminar

Faculty Advisor: Matthew Feliz

Field Site: Monument Lab

Field Supervisor: Maya Bjornson

Praxis Poster: 

Lily Wallis_Poster_Final S24

 

Further Context:

As I reflect on my recent internship with Monument Lab, a nonprofit public art and history studio based in Philadelphia, I am struck by the profound impact it has had on my personal and professional development. Over the past semester, I had the privilege of immersing myself in the dynamic world of arts administration while actively contributing to Monument Lab’s mission of fostering critical conversations around monuments, memory, and social change. From the outset, I was captivated by Monument Lab’s innovative approach to public engagement and collective memory. I quickly realized that my role in directory research, data cleaning, and management
was not merely about compiling information but was integral to the larger goal of facilitating inclusive and participatory dialogue within communities. Conducting research for directory information allowed me to delve into the rich tapestry of Philadelphia’s history and cultural landscape. It was a process of discovery that deepened my appreciation for the diverse stories
and voices that shape our understanding of the past. Moreover, assisting in cleaning and managing data records underscored the importance of accuracy and attention to detail in supporting the organization’s mission. In addition to my responsibilities in data management, I also had the opportunity to contribute to the smooth functioning of Monument Lab’s daily operations. Providing general assistance with office tasks may have seemed routine, but it was a vital aspect of ensuring that the organization could focus on its core objectives and I gained valuable insight into the logistical challenges of running a nonprofit arts organization.

Beyond the practical skills I acquired, my internship at Monument Lab provided me with a rich understanding of the intersection between administrative operations and social change through art. Through conversations with my colleagues and exposure to the organization’s
projects and initiatives, I came to appreciate how effective administration can amplify the impact of artistic interventions in public spaces. Looking back on my time at Monument Lab, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a dynamic and inspiring organization. My internship has not only equipped me with practical skills and knowledge, but has ignited a
passion for using art as a tool for social justice and community empowerment. I am excited to continue exploring the intersection of art, administration, and activism, and to contribute to positive change in the world around me.