Art Information Volunteers

About the Program
Art information volunteers assist the public on behalf of the National Gallery of Art. From the Information Desks in the Gallery's West and East Buildings, volunteers provide information to visitors about the Gallery, its permanent collections, special exhibitions, and public programs.

Commitment and Training Requirements

Commitment
Participation in the program requires a commitment of time and service. Weekday volunteers assume responsibility for one four-hour morning or afternoon shift per week. Weekend volunteers accept a similar four-hour obligation on alternate Saturdays or Sundays. A willingness to devote additional time to learning about the Gallery's collections and attending enrichment programs is expected of each volunteer. Attendance at a specified number of in-service meetings is required.

Training Requirements
The volunteer orientation program includes an initial orientation course, conducted on selected Saturdays by the art information staff. Prospective volunteers are introduced to the Gallery's collections, policies, programs, and administrative structure. Training includes lectures, discussions, building and gallery tours, and home assignments. After successfully completing the course and serving a probationary period, candidates are certified as full members of the Art Information Volunteer Program.

Application Process

Art Information Volunteer Program Application

Prospective candidates for the 2013 Class of Art Information Volunteers should print the form, complete it, attach a copy of their resumé, and mail it, postmarked no later than March 1, 2013, to:

Art Information Volunteer Program
Division of Education
National Gallery of Art
2000B South Club Drive
Landover, MD 20785

Interviews will begin in March 2013. Please be sure to include an e-mail address for contact. Because the positions available may be limited in number, we regret that we may not be able to invite every applicant to interview or participate.

Although no special credential or work experience is required, applicants should have strong communication skills and some familiarity with the National Gallery of Art, combining an interest in the visual arts with a desire to provide a valuable service to Gallery visitors. They should be able to move freely about the museum and handle small bundles of printed materials.

To reach the art information staff for additional information or assistance, please e-mail dea-info@nga.gov.