Frequently Asked Questions: Adult Program Docents
- What is the expected commitment for docents?
- Do I need prior knowledge of art to be a docent?
- When do tours take place?
- Is parking available at the Gallery for docents?
- What is the dress code for docents?
- How many applicants will be accepted to the new adult program docent class?
- Currently how many docents are there?
- Is the Gallery recruiting docents to give tours in languages other than English?
1. What is the expected commitment for docents?
New docents in the adult program are expected to make a five-year commitment, which includes the two-year initial training. During initial training, docent candidates will participate in sessions on Thursdays from 10:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; if there is sufficient need, we will add evening sessions from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Additional sessions will be held on occasional Wednesdays from 10:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., but many of these will be recorded lectures that can be viewed independently. A full training calendar will be distributed in summer 2018. New docents begin providing tours after completing several months of training.
2. Do I need prior knowledge of art to be a docent?
New docents are not required to have prior knowledge of art or art history. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and require an undergraduate degree or equivalent experience through work or study. All docents are expected to give tours in English but we welcome the ability to give tours in an additional language. Docents receive extensive training in museum teaching and the Gallery’s collection.
Tours take place every day of the week. Please check our website to learn about the tours currently offered.
4. Is parking available at the Gallery for adult program docents?
Public transportation and carpools are strongly encouraged. On-site parking is available on a limited basis for docents giving tours. There is limited metered parking available on surrounding streets.
5. What is the dress code for adult program docents?
There is no official dress code for adult program docents, but it is suggested that docents dress in professional attire.
6. How many applicants will be accepted to the new adult program docent class?
We anticipate accepting approximately 40 applicants into the new adult program docent class.
7. Currently how many adult program docents are there?
The Gallery currently has approximately 85 active adult program docents.