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National Museum of African Art - Smithsonian Institution

Prospective Docent Open House

March 11, 2017
2 p.m.–4:30 p.m.
Open to ages 18 and up

Interested in Becoming a Docent?

Docent Open House
Photograph courtesy Michelle Edwards
The Smithsonian National Museum of African Art (NMAfA) is currently accepting applicants for its docent training program. Join us for a Docent Open House to meet current docents and learn more about this exciting program. The National Museum of African Art’s docents are an enthusiastic group who enjoy discussing the museum’s collection and exhibitions with its curators, taking trips to other museums, and researching and learning about art together. If you are seeking a rewarding volunteer experience, enjoy learning and working with the public, and have an interest in art, the National Museum of African Art is the place for you!

If you plan to attend this open house, please submit your application here. For more information about volunteer opportunities at the Smithsonian Institution, visit si.edu/volunteer.

About the National Museum of African Art’s Docent Program

Docents support the National Museum of African Art’s collections, research, and exhibitions by staffing interactive carts, assisting visitors in selected exhibitions, giving highlights hours, participating in community outreach, and facilitating hands-on activities. We are actively recruiting for weekday and weekend docents. Once accepted, docent candidates must successfully complete all required training for their assigned programs and be able to commit to a regular schedule for at least one year.

Required training is provisionally scheduled for May 2017. Sessions will focus on information learning in museums, interpretive techniques, and African art history. Additional enrichment training is scheduled throughout the year and includes lectures, workshops, field trips, and seminars.

Program Agenda:

  • 2:00 PM. Welcome remarks
  • 2:15 PM. Docent Highlights Tour
  • 3:05 PM. Review of docent program benefits, requirements, and program history.
  • 3:45 PM. Q&A Panel with Current NMAFA Docents
  • 4:20 PM. Closing Remarks

Free and open to the public