Docents are dedicated volunteers who serve as tour guides. They help their audience interpret the art they see by asking questions and presenting relevant factual information. By making the museum a comfortable and interactive environment for visitors young and old, they provide an invaluable service to Danforth Art and to the community.
Become a Docent!
If you are interested in art, like working with people, and can commit to attending Wednesday morning meetings, consider becoming a Danforth Art Docent. Docents make a commitment to lead or assist in at least 10 group programs during the school year. Whether a group wants a fact-based lecture, or an interactive discussion, docents provide a fun and educational experience. All docents must be Danforth Art members.
An art background is not necessary. Docents receive in-gallery training on the elements of art, Danforth Art’s permanent collection, and curriculum-based programs for children. There are plenty of opportunities to observe and work as part of a team until trainees are confident as well as competent to work on their own. Docents participate in research and ongoing continuing education, with lectures by museum staff, artists, historians and curators. Docents also make trips to other museums.
If you wish to become a docent please call Danforth Art at 508.620.0050 x23 for an application or click here to download a Docent Program application [PDF].
What Our Docents Say
“It’s the best thing I did when I retired!
I like giving tours to children and seeing the light bulb go off as they answer questions about the art.
Working with a group of energized, intelligent and creative people is what makes me come back
week after week.
This is one of the few volunteer organizations where you get as much as you give.”
