U.Va. Art Museum Accepting Applications for Docent Program

January 9, 2012 — The University of Virginia Art Museum is accepting applications from community members and U.Va. students for its docent program. The deadline is due Jan. 23.

The museum's volunteer docents give interactive tours to a variety of school groups and community organizations from across Central Virginia. They also assist with special programs, including the annual Writer's Eye competition.

Those who are accepted into the program must complete the museum's 10-week docent training course. Participants develop observational skills and knowledge of the elements of art through investigation of the museum's collections and current exhibitions, learn public speaking skills and techniques for facilitating tours, and complete a qualifying tour at the end of the course. The spring 2012 docent training course will meet from 9 a.m. to noon on Friday mornings from Feb. 3 through April 20.

Applications from community members are reviewed by the museum's docent coordinator; applications from U.Va. students are reviewed by a panel of students and the docent coordinator.

For application or information regarding docent training, email Lauren Paullin at docenteducation@virginia.edu or call the U.Va. Art Museum Education Department at 434-243-2050.