Become a Docent

What is a museum docent?

A docent is a trained teaching guide. The word “docent” is derived from the Latin verb “docere,” meaning to teach. Docents are museum volunteers who use their diverse backgrounds and talents to enhance visitors' experiences. They are volunteer education professionals. 

What are the prerequisites?

To become a docent at the Burchfield Penney Art Center, you must love art and people! A prospective docent should be enthusiastic, a careful listener, a creative thinker, and possess a true passion for learning. If you are committed to creating meaningful experiences, sparking conversations, and connecting museum visitors to art and new ideas, you will make an excellent docent.

What is the process for becoming a museum docent?

Prospective docents are required to complete the docent application (see below). You will then be asked to meet with staff and active docents to review the application.  Applicants accepted into the docent program will be fully trained prior to conducting tours. Applications are due by Thursday, August 15, 2024.

What is required of a Burchfield Penney Art Center Docent?

Docents are asked to become Burchfield Penney Art Center members and, as such, will enjoy numerous member benefits. Docents-in-training must attend 11 sessions during the months of September through December. (Dates listed below) Docents are expected to commit to the program for one full year after completing training, providing a minimum of two tours monthly. Docents are also encouraged to attend lectures and other educational programming presented by the Burchfield Penney Art Center and other area museums.

What does docent training entail? 

Docent training is a multi-layered program with sessions addressing each of the following strands:

• Strand 1 is designed to familiarize docents with the history of the Burchfield Penney Art Center, the artistic contributions of Charles E. Burchfield, the legacy of Charles Rand Penney, the extensive collection of regional work, special exhibitions, and our outstanding sustainable building.
• Strand 2 focuses on interpretive techniques and questioning strategies.  Docents will be trained to develop tours that guarantee visitors learn through an interactive, engaging experience. 
• Strand 3 prepares docents to work with a full range of audiences. 
• Strand 4 provides opportunities for shadowing and practice tours designed to ensure that docents reach a comfort level that allows them to confidently lead their own independent tours. 

Why should I consider becoming a docent?

Because we need you!  We rely on the willingness of community members like you to aid in creating valuable experiences for museum guests. In return, you will be rewarded with lifelong learning opportunities in the arts, the camaraderie of Burchfield Penney Art Center’s docents and staff, and memorable experiences as you share your knowledge and love of art with others.