Volunteer
Docents
What is the RMA Docent program?
The RMA Docent Program is a group of passionate art lovers and enthusiastic life-long learners, interested in sharing their knowledge through community engagement. Docents work with museum audiences of all ages, from K-12 students to adults, to ensure they have the best experience through art discussions and appreciation.
RMA’s Education Department provides docents with ongoing educational development, chances to teach our community through art, and a space to meet other like-minded volunteers.
In addition to public tours and school programs, docents can opt to be involved in organizing, preparing, and supervising hands-on, creative activities for children and their families throughout the year.
Benefits of serving as an RMA docent include:
- invitations to annual recognition events
- special tours by artists
- complimentary museum catalogs
- discounts at the gift store and for event tickets
Expectations
No previous background in the arts, art history, or teaching is required to volunteer. Individuals wishing to become RMA docents should be motivated to learn about art and the art of teaching in a museum, comfortable with interacting with a diverse public, and willing to undergo extensive training.
New docents learn in-depth about the works in the RMA’s permanent collection and temporary exhibitions that change three times a year; they also hone their presentation skills. The overall experience is stimulating and rewarding, if not life-changing.
RMA requests a one year commitment and welcomes a new docent class every summer. Volunteer hours are available on weekdays, weekends, and evenings, and range from 2 to 10 hours per week.
New Docent Training occurs each summer. Applications for the next docent class are now closed and will reopen in early spring 2025.
For more information, contact our Education Department.