Summer Stories: Annalise Ashman '24
"The History of Art department at Bryn Mawr has continuously provided me with the invaluable art historical knowledge to be able to pursue this opportunity, and others like it, with confidence."
"The History of Art department at Bryn Mawr has continuously provided me with the invaluable art historical knowledge to be able to pursue this opportunity, and others like it, with confidence."
As a History of Art and Anthropology double major with a Museum Studies minor, Annalise Ashman is well-versed in all things art. When she isn’t learning about art in the classroom, she’s involved with Art Club and BACaSO, an affinity group on campus. This summer, she continues her work with Sotheby’s in New York as the Contemporary Art, Evening Sales Intern.
How did you find this internship?
I did a Google sweep for internships related to art and art business and found several opportunities related to the buying and selling of artworks through auction houses. This opportunity appealed to me specifically for its focus on hands-on learning and collaboration both within and across departments.
How do you feel that Bryn Mawr has prepared you?
The History of Art department at Bryn Mawr has continuously provided me with the invaluable art historical knowledge to be able to pursue this opportunity, and others like it, with confidence. In looking at works of art, Bryn Mawr has equipped me with a strong foundation in art historical writing and research that has helped me navigate daily tasks and assignments. Specifically, my contemporary art classes have also allowed me to explore my interest within the field through artists that appeal to me.
What are you most excited to do during this internship?
I am so excited to learn more about the global art market through hands-on experiences and collaborative projects! I am working with an extremely knowledgeable team of people who have worn many different hats in the art world, and I can’t wait to continue learning more throughout the summer. Being in New York, I am also excited to further explore the robust art scene of galleries and museums. So far, I have explored a few galleries throughout Lower Manhattan, and still have many more left on my list to visit!
Annalise is also excited to exercise her creativity outside of work this summer, “At the beginning of the year, I made it my summer mission to make homemade jam! During my time at home, I found a local farm, picked a few pounds of strawberries, and made strawberry jam for the first time! I am a lifetime jam lover, and this project was so much fun for me. After being abroad, it was great to return home and do something so rewarding and share it with my family. I will be making jam again and planning to try my hand at using blueberries too!”