About Middle East Institute

Founded in 1946, the Middle East Institute is the oldest Washington-based institution dedicated solely to the study of the Middle East. It is a non-partisan think tank providing expert policy analysis, educational and professional development services, and a hub for engaging with the region's arts and culture.

About the role

Department: Arts and Culture Center

Location: 1763 N Street NW, Washington DC and online

Duration: Winter 2025, minimum of 20-25 hours a week, ideally half of that in-person at MEI at 1763 N Street NW.

MEI's Arts and Culture Center facilitates cross-cultural understanding by promoting the work of emerging Middle Eastern artists through the MEI Art Gallery and by organizing innovative programming, including panels, art talks and film screenings to amplify the voices of artists, writers, filmmakers and more  from the region. The Center also promotes cultural diplomacy by engaging in cultural collaborations with arts institutions in the Middle East connecting US and Arab cultural leaders. 

We seek an intern to assist this busy department with critical archiving, marketing and organizational needs. You will be involved in assisting with the opening and marketing of an exhibition of contemporary Middle Eastern art, as well as learning about the role and impact of art, artists and culture on society, policy and cultural diplomacy.

What you'll do

The Winter 2025 Arts and Culture intern will gain important experience and skills by assisting with the following Key Responsibilities:

• Launching an MEI Art Gallery Instagram page featuring all of MEI’s past 14 exhibitions to include  the images and background information on the featured artists and works.
• Working on social media for MEI’s upcoming Iranian art exhibition to include drafting posts, making videos and finding ways to engage broad audiences.
• Working with the Center’s team to help conceptualize, plan and execute programs to amplify MEI’s upcoming exhibit of contemporary Iranian art.
• Identifying potential foundation grants and assisting in the research and writing of the grants.
• Researching top authors to invite to attend a major book fair in the Middle East.

Educational Objectives:

• To Gain practical experience related to working on the arts and culture of the Middle East with a focus on archiving, social media and gaining organizational skills
• Develop skills in working on Instagram, X, as well as video making and editing, as well as research and archiving
• Learn about Middle Eastern artists, culture and the role of cultural diplomacy

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's program in a related field or a recent graduate
• Strong interest in the arts and culture of the Middle East
• Excellent research, communication and interpersonal skills. 

Benefits:

• Hands-on experience in the arts
• Mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals.
• Networking opportunities within the industry.
• Potential for academic credit, if applicable.

Note: This is an unpaid internship with no promise or expectation of compensation, express or implied. Furthermore, participation in this internship does not entitle interns to a paid job after the internship.