the Muscarelle Museum of Art at the College of William and Mary
What is a Docent?
A Docent is a teacher, serving the Museum and the community in the field of art education. “Docent” is derived from the Latin word ‘docere', meaning ‘to teach'. Docents are professional volunteer Museum staff, who acts as liaisons between the Museum and general public. The Museum is fortunate to have Docents come from a wide range of backgrounds and professions!
Docents contribute to the Museum in several ways:
Touring… Serve as tour guides for children and adults visiting the Museum!
Research… Prepare background information on the works of art in the Museum's collection, special exhibitions and new acquisitions!
Outreach… Give presentations at schools and community organizations!
The Training Program!
The training program will last 7 months. From October through April, docents will be lead in several areas including the study of art history, museum education, elements of art, the Muscarelle Museum of Art's permanent collection and the Museums history and policy. Provisional Docents meet only two hours every other Thursday from 9am-11am with every other training session geared especially for new Docents. Membership in the Docent Program requires a minimum two year commitment.
Active Docents are available to volunteer a minimum of eight hours per month and also attend training sessions (which are not held after the second week of December through the first week in January).
Active Docents are entitled to a number of benefits including a tuition waiver for one class each semester at the College of William and Mary, a library card from the College's Earl Gregg Swem Library with full privileges, and the opportunity to participate in a number of field trips and special Docent only events!
Cost
You will be required to become a member of the Muscarelle Museum of Art.
Why should I consider becoming a Docent?
Docents can expect to participate in many fun and enlightening experiences working with children, college students and community members. There are numerous networking opportunities with artists, art professionals, and community leaders. You can also expect to expand your understanding of art, develop speaking skills and attend informative workshops. Being involved as a Docent increases involvement with the College and community at large while promoting academic excellence. The Docents at the Muscarelle Museum of Art are energetic, spirited, and enthusiastic and dedicated to the Program!
How do I become a Docent?
First complete the application form, and once submitted the Curator of Education and an Active Docent will conduct interviews. We are looking for people who have an interest in a fulfilling commitment to the Docent Program. Applications are available at the Security Desk at the entrance to the Museum.
Please contact Amy Gorman, Curator of Education, akgorman@wm.edu, 757.221.2703