Enfilade

An 18th-century balloon takes off (Library of Congress); illustration from Jane E. Boyd, "Artificial Clouds and Inflammable Air: The Science and Spectacle of the First Balloon Flights, 1783," 'Chemical Heritage Magazine' (Summer 2009); click to access the article.

After two years and 123,595 hits, I continue to be amazed at how much more the site has become than I ever initially imagined. Thanks to all of you for your kind input, your generosity in sharing news, and above all for your support in reading. To mark the anniversary, I want to make two plugs: one a familiar refrain, the other an announcement regarding the launch of an internship program.

First, if you’re a regular reader, please consider making a financial contribution to the Historians of Eighteenth-Century Art & Architecture. Enfilade is produced at absolutely zero costs to HECAA, but the organization needs financial resources to pursue its mission, an important part of which includes modest grants for graduate students. Anyone interested in the period is welcome to become a member; so if you’re reading, consider joining. For current members, now is a good time to send in your dues for 2011 if you’ve not yet done so (just $20/$5 for graduate students). Please also think about making an additional donation to help fund the Dora Wiebenson Prize or the Mary Vidal Memorial Fund. Checks should be sent directly to Denise Baxter (the transition to our new treasurer Jennifer Germann will occur soon, but for now Denise is still glad to cash your checks).

Second, I’m pleased to announce that Enfilade is now accepting applications for a new student internship program. The intern positions are intended to provide art historical experience for M.A. students in Art History, Architectural History, Museum Studies, or other related disciplines (exceptional upper-level undergraduates will also be considered). Duties will primarily consist of researching potential postings, gathering information about upcoming exhibitions, conferences, forthcoming books, &c. Depending upon an intern’s interests, expertise, and location, other projects are also possible. Starting dates are flexible. The internship runs for 8 weeks with the possibility of an extension. Students are expected to work a minimum of 5 hours per week. The position is unpaid, though it will include a one-year HECAA membership. Given the nature of the work, the internship can be completed from anywhere. Requirements:

• Basic computer skills with online access
• A minimum of five art history courses
• Strong writing skills
• Fluency in English, though additional languages are certainly advantageous

Application materials:

• Cover letter explaining the applicant’s interests, skills, and plans for the near future
• C.V.
• Writing sample of 3-5 pages

Applications should be sent to CraigAshleyHanson@gmail.com

As with everything with Enfilade, the internship program is an experiment. We’ll see how it goes and adjust accordingly. By all means feel free to send your own ideas, thoughts, and concerns. And again, thanks for reading! -CH.