Hometown: Orlando, Florida
Major: BFA Studio Art
What is your favorite work of art in the Harn?
This is a hard question because there are so many fascinating works in the Harn, especially those featured in Under the Spell of the Palm Tree: The Rice Collection of Cuban Art. My favorite artwork is La belleza interna (The Inner Beauty) by Alberto Lago. The vibrant colors of the composition immerse you in a surreal world. As an artist myself, I can’t help but wonder if I could think and paint as imaginatively as Lago did in this captivating piece.
Why were you first interested in this internship?
I was introduced to this internship after a professor from UF’s College of the Arts suggested I apply for the position. At the time, the internship was a prospective project and not officialized yet. My first thought was ‘what does Education Fabrication even mean?,’ but I sent the application and to my surprise, was accepted. I was most excited about learning and taking on new challenges, which has allowed me to get pre-professional experience in my senior year.
Describe your internship responsibilities.
I am developing and creating interactive devices and pieces, improving interactions between museum visitors and the exhibition space. I recently collaborated with Eric Segal, the Harn’s Director of Education, to design a texture-oriented piece that reflects the themes of the exhibition, Metamorphosis: Reshaping Contemporary Art. The piece is meant to engage museum visitors’ tactile senses, creating an interactive way to learn about the artworks in the museum.
What has been your favorite memory during your internship?
My favorite memory as an intern is being featured in the Harn’s Intern & Volunteer Art Show. I was so glad to see my hard work pay off and was filled with joy while viewing my creations on display in the main gallery space. I am so grateful to the museum and its generosity in spotlighting young artists. By participating in its shows and programs, I’ve been able to launch my artistic career with the Harn’s help.
How has the Jalyn Imani Stallworth Internship Fund helped your academic/professional endeavors?
I applied for the Jalyn Imani Stallworth Internship award because it aligned with my goals and desires the most. The internship and scholarship is for aspiring educators and sets out to create a more diverse community. I strive to be an example for other young Black creatives and living proof that they have a place in the art world. I couldn’t be more thankful for the Jalyn Imani Stallworth Internship, as it has given me the support I need to further these professional and personal goals.
In what ways does your work as a Harn Intern contribute to Jalyn’s legacy?
As an intern, I have the opportunity to create and actualize meaningful initiatives in a professional setting. My work at the Harn, as a young Black female, is directly tied to Jalyn’s aspirations, establishing greater diversity in art spaces and long-lasting community connections. I believe Jalyn’s dreams and goals can live on through my actions and those of future interns.
Visit the Harn’s website to learn more about internships and application deadlines. If you are interested in supporting paid internships at the Harn, please consider making a gift of any size to the Jalyn Imani Stallworth Internship Endowment, Expanding Student Possibilities Fund, or Tim Joiner Memorial Intern Fund. Please contact the Development office at development@harn.ufl.edu for more information about supporting paid internships or other ways to give.
