For Bachelor of Art History and Curating (BAHC) graduate Ella Peck, curating began as a spark in high school. Attending a Monash University Museum of Art (MUMA) schools education program introduced Ella to MUMA for the first time and a Studio Art subject introduced her to the world behind exhibitions — the roles, collaborations, and networks that bring art to the public.

Guided by a career advisor, Ella chose Monash University's BAHC degree as a way to pursue her passion for working around art and people without committing to a studio practice.

“I really enjoyed seeing how exhibitions come together,” Ella recalls. “That opened my eyes to all the collaboration that surrounds exhibiting art. Monash offered the perfect pathway to learn about the history and theory of art while also building practical curatorial skills.”

A supportive learning community

Looking back, Ella says the highlight of her degree was the teaching staff.

“All the tutors and lecturers bring such a wealth of experience. Each staff member introduced us to new artworks, artists and initiatives. Whenever I had a project, I could consult with them and they’d share advice and resources. That support really shaped my learning.”

Her studies were complemented by hands-on experiences, including an internship at Seventh Gallery, an artist-run initiative in Richmond.

“Because the team was so small, I got to do a bit of everything. It showed me the importance of collaboration between staff, volunteers, the board and artists.”

Receiving the MUMA internship

Ella’s final-year curatorial project, Growing Pains, explored themes of nostalgia, transition and memory through an exhibition, publication, posters and public programs.

Image: 'Growing Pains' installation at MADA Now 2024, by Ella Peck.

Image: 'Growing Pains' installation at MADA Now 2024, by Ella Peck.

Her thoughtful, artist-focused approach earned her a place in the prestigious Monash University Museum of Art (MUMA)–Monash Art, Design and Architecture (MADA) Curating Internship program, offered to top BAHC graduates.

“I was honestly shocked when I found out,” she says. “I wasn’t thinking about awards when I was working on my project—I was just proud of the outcome.”

Stephanie Berlangieri, Curator – Research at MUMA, was part of the selection panel. She says Ella’s project stood out for its “emotional intelligence and conceptual clarity, as well as her DIY sensibility and interest in disrupting traditional curatorial hierarchies.”

Behind the scenes at MUMA

At MUMA, Ella joined the curatorial team two days a week, sitting alongside Stephanie and contributing to a major publishing project marking the museum’s 50th anniversary: 50 Years /50 Works: A MUMA Collection Index.

The publication brings together 50 key works from MUMA’s collection with newly commissioned texts by 50 writers. Ella’s role was broad and detailed, ranging from coordinating with contributors and managing databases, to checking catalogue details, updating collection files, and securing image permissions.

Image: Ella Peck working with MUMA Curator Stephanie Berlangierie.

Image: Ella Peck and Stephanie Berlangierie with MUMA 50 Years Publication.

“At MUMA, It was incredible to see how many people were connected to one project,” she says. “I hadn’t worked with an editor or designer before, and I loved learning how everything came together. Being part of a layered project that branched off to so many groups of people was really educational.”

Stephanie describes Ella as “thoughtful, enthusiastic and attentive to detail”, adding that she integrated seamlessly into the team and brought fresh perspectives. “Ella’s contribution significantly advanced the progress of the publication. Just as importantly, she brought a curious, considered energy—one that reflects the concerns of a new generation of curators.”

Image: 50 Years/50 Works: A MUMA Collection Index.

Image: 50 Years/50 Works: A MUMA Collection Index.

The value of partnership

The internship program is the result of a long-standing partnership between MUMA and Monash's Department of Fine Art at MADA, which provides students with opportunities to apply their learning in a professional museum environment.

“MUMA’s partnership with MADA is a natural extension of our role within the University, and a way to support the next generation of art professionals,” Stephanie explains. “Interns are integrated into our team and contribute to real projects, gaining insight into how a contemporary art museum operates. Importantly, they are paid for their contribution."

The relationship benefits both parties: students receive mentorship and professional experience, while MUMA gains fresh perspectives and meaningful contributions to major projects.

Looking ahead

Now a casual staff member at MUMA, Ella is taking time after graduation to travel and work on her creative practice, with an eye toward a possible Honours year in Curating. As for her dream job, she imagines a space that bridges her love of art, community and publishing.

“I think my dream would be to own and open my own place that facilitates that,” she reflects.

Wherever her path leads, the skills and experiences gained through Monash Art, Design and Architecture (MADA) and MUMA have given Ella a strong foundation. “The degree really encourages you to follow your own interests. I loved learning something new in every class—and having the chance to put it all into practice at MUMA was an invaluable experience.”

50 Years/50 Works: A MUMA Collection Index is available for purchase.