Mellon Undergraduate Curatorial Fellowship
The Mellon Summer Academy and Undergraduate Curatorial Fellowship is currently on pause.
Over the last decade, the Andrew W. Mellon Undergraduate Curatorial Fellowship (MUCF) program has sought to diversify curatorial cohorts in American art museums, supporting the work that foregrounds the growth of strong and diverse curatorial ranks into robust and distinct art museum leadership.
Following the current class of 2021–2022 fellows, the MUCF will pause in order to conduct a thorough evaluation and assessment of program goals and strategies. During this process, the Foundation will analyze the program’s achievements, identify opportunities for improvement, and strengthen best practices for revitalized programming that is equal to the challenges and opportunities of our current moment.
We anticipate that the program may resume in 2024, ready to continue the critical work that creates a coherent web of opportunities that lead from undergraduate through graduate work to curatorial positions in our nation’s cultural institutions.
How do I apply to the MUCF program?
Currently we are not accepting applications to MUCF. When the program resumes, following evaluation and assessment, application guidelines will be posted here.
Why is the MUCF program pausing?
The MUCF will briefly pause in order to conduct a thorough evaluation of the program. After nine years, it is important for the Mellon Foundation and its partner museums to assess the program’s strengths, assets, and opportunities for improvement to ensure that it is making the greatest possible overall impact.
When will the program resume?
We anticipate that the program may resume in 2024.
Is the MUCF program paused at all partner museums?
Yes, the program as a whole has been paused in order to conduct a thorough evaluation that involves all partners.
Are there other opportunities for undergraduates at the High Museum?
The High Museum of Art aims to expand diversity in the museum field by inviting undergraduates from historically underrepresented backgrounds to participate in a week-long Museum Careers Summer Academy—providing a special opportunity to learn about curatorial practice, museum education, marketing, registration, and exhibition design.
For more information about the High’s Museum Careers Summer Academy, please visit the High’s Summer Academy page.
How can I be notified when the program resumes?
Please sign up for email updates by sending an email to fellows@high.org, or by checking this webpage in fall of 2023.
Questions? Please contact:
Julia Forbes
Associate Director, Institutional Research
404-733-4470
Julia.Forbes@high.org
Brenau University Feature
Student Perspective: Jennifer Benitez’s experience as part of the Mellon Curatorial Fellowship at the High Museum of Art
Brenau University senior studio art major Jennifer Benitez shares her experience spending a week learning about a curator’s daily life at the High Museum of Art.
ArtsATL Feature
Spelman undergraduate Kéla Jackson tells a story of the African diaspora at the High
Student curator Kéla Jackson says there is a need to revitalize museums and keep them relevant. Through the support of the Mellon Foundation, Jackson has curated a small exhibition at the High Museum that highlights links between the work of African and African American artists.
