STUDIO
ASSISTANT

Location: Austin, TX
Type: Paid Internship
Compensation: $16 – $18 / Hour

THE STUDIO ENVIRONMENT

The studio is the heart of the practice. It is where the quiet discipline of painting meets the fast-paced reality of running a global art business. Located in the creative hub of Austin, the Laura Clay Art studio is a space of rigorous production. Here, we balance the solitude of creation with the logistics of commerce. We believe that how an artwork leaves the studio is just as important as how it was made.

We are seeking a Studio Assistant who understands that details matter. This is not a passive role. You will be the operational backbone of the studio, ensuring that the space functions seamlessly so the art can take center stage. You will work directly alongside Laura, bridging the gap between the easel and the collector.

This position is designed for someone who wants to understand the architecture of an art career. You will learn that being a professional artist is 50% creation and 50% logistics, strategy, and relationships.

THE ROLE

Stewardship of the Art You will handle artwork with the highest level of care. This includes prepping canvases, varnishing finished oil paintings, and executing museum-standard packaging for shipments to collectors and galleries worldwide.

Fine Art Printing & Production You will master the technical side of museum-grade reproduction. This includes operating a professional large-format printer, sizing digital files for precise output, and cutting and matting prints to retail standards. You will also manage the documentation for our Open and Limited Edition series, creating and numbering Certificates of Authenticity with the same care as the original work.

Inventory & Logistics You will manage the flow of the studio. From cataloging new works in our inventory system to monitoring supply levels and coordinating with framers, you will ensure nothing falls through the cracks.

Gallery & Client Relations You will assist in the professional correspondence that keeps the business moving. This includes drafting invoices, coordinating studio visits with interior designers, and helping prepare for exhibitions like The Affordable Art Fair.

THE RESPONSIBILITES

At Laura Clay Art, we do not gatekeep knowledge. During your time here, you will gain full transparency into how a contemporary art business functions. You will leave with a deep understanding of:

  • Pricing strategies and gallery commission structures.

  • The logistics of shipping fine art internationally.

  • How to build and maintain relationships with interior designers and collectors.

THE MENTORSHIP

REQUIREMENTS

  • Current undergraduate or graduate student (Arts, Art History, or Administration preferred but not required).

  • Proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud (specifically Photoshop) for file preparation.

  • Ability to lift 25 lbs (packing materials and canvases).

  • Availability for 5 to 10 hours per week.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

You are punctual, organized, and take pride in a clean workspace.

❋ Disciplined
❋ Tactile

You are comfortable working with your hands and handling valuable, delicate objects.

You want to know the "why" behind the business decisions, not just the "how."

❋ Curious

You are based in Austin and have reliable transportation to East Austin.

❋ Local

HOW TO APPLY

We review applications on a rolling basis. To apply, please email hello@lauraclayart.com with the subject line "Studio Assistant Application - [Your Name]" and include:

  1. Your CV / Resume (PDF).

  2. A brief cover letter telling us why you want to work in a fine art studio.

  3. Two references (Academic or Professional).

Apply Now