VMFA will begin accepting applications to become a Volunteer Tour Guide (the position formerly known as “Docent”) beginning Monday, July 22, 2019 through Sunday, September 15, 2019. For this recruitment, Tour Guides will (initially) be trained to tour an upcoming special exhibition titled Egypt: Sunken Cities (on view May 2020-January 2021). Please read through the description of the volunteer role, requirements, timeline, etc. before filling out an application.
Two separate, on-site informational sessions will take place during the month of August 2019 (during the application process). Anyone interested in learning more about the VMFA Tour Guide Program and/or how to apply can join us for one of these on-site sessions (there is no requirement to attend).
What is a VMFA Tour Guide?
VMFA Tour Guides are trained volunteers dedicated to connecting with our visitors through facilitated, shared gallery experiences centered on the visual arts. Falling within our Interpretation Department, they are an integral part of the Education Division and are often referred to as “frontline staff” or ambassadors of the Museum. Our Tour Guides are trained on facilitation values based on a learner-driven experience, where guests are guided through the process of looking, exploring, and discussing art. VMFA Tour Guides must have excellent customer service skills and be able to engage visitors of all ages and backgrounds with an emphasis on a visitor-centered facilitation style. The facilitation style focuses on engagement through dialogue, an exchange of knowledge between guide and visitor, and helping participants explore critical, creative, and reflective thinking skills.