KOREA FOUNDATION

KF Global Challengers Internship Letter

I have been working at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) since February. Los Angeles is well-known for its warm weather, but it was rather chilly when I arrived.
   I am on the staff of the Chinese and Korean Art Department and am involved in two main projects—research for the Korean contemporary art exhibition that is scheduled to be held in 2021 and preparation for the calligraphy exhibition, opening in June.
   My research on Korean contemporary art is a comprehensive process that includes collecting books and materials on artists and compiling data in English by studying diverse materials and references. There are relatively not many academic papers on Korean contemporary art, written in English. Hence, I usually select books that are published in Korean and make summaries of them in English. For books that are indispensable for our research but are not in our collection, I borrow them from other institutions by using the Inter Library Loan.
   The closer the calligraphy show is approaching in date, the more work it demands. I am observing, learning and getting used to the administrative affairs involved: I attend various meetings on getting loans from Korean institutions, the design and publication of the exhibition catalogue, display of artworks, lighting the exhibition hall, and ceremony. Taking part in these meetings alone is a wonderful learning experience.
   LACMA provides its staff(who are new) with various educational opportunities to help them adapt to the museum’s work environment and enhance their on-the-job competence. I have now learned to use of the intra-museum database, which is necessary for managing the museum’s collection. I have also completed health and security training conducted by the Security Department. I was introduced (in great detail) to my rights as an employee and to the proper procedures regarding what I should do if my rights are infringed upon. I have also been able to enjoy and learn from diverse public lectures and performances organized by LACMA.

KF Museum Internship Los Angeles County Museum of Art Museum Youngin Kim

Los_Angeles Museum Art_Museum Exhibition