Docent Program
Since 1946, IMA Docents have offered tours centered around works of art to our visitors. Today, our Docents offer a range of tours year-round for adults and children, including School Tours (K-12), VTS Tours, and tours of Lilly House.
Join a Docent Tour
Docent-led tours take place throughout the year. Tours meet at the Ambassador’s Desk on Floor 2 of the Efroymson Entrance Pavilion and are generally 30 minutes in length. Advance registration is not required. Tours of Lilly House (spring and summer) meet just inside the main entrance of the house.
Request a Private or School Tour
Private tours and tours for school groups can be arranged by completing and submitting a tour request form no less than four weeks prior to the requested tour date. For more information, please see our tours page. School tours can be arranged by filling out the form on the field trips page. To arrange a private tour for an adult group, please fill out this form.
How to Become a Docent
Docents must first qualify as Newfields Volunteers by submitting a volunteer application (please indicate “IMA Docent Program” as your first assignment preference on the application). Following a screening interview and a background check, you'll begin the onboarding process by completing a virtual orientation, signing a copy of the Volunteer Handbook, and participating in an orientation session.
Volunteers who want to become IMA Docents can then apply to the Docent Program. Accepted applicants are invited to complete a six-month training course that runs from January through June and equips you with the basics of art history, relevant historical background, touring techniques, and guest experience training. In addition to attending classes on Saturdays, you'll engage regularly with Docent Mentors to hone your skills and prepare to lead your own tours. Homework assignments include readings, videos, and live virtual sessions with instructors. After you complete the course, you'll lead a graduation tour to demonstrate what you've learned.
Docent Responsibilities and Privileges
As educators and ambassadors of Newfields, IMA Docents are expected to maintain a high standard of quality across all of our public offerings. To remain in good standing, Docents are required to participate in at least three Continuing Docent Education (CDE) opportunities per calendar year, complete at least 12 assignments (tours and/or Gallery Conversations), and attend quarterly All-Docent Meetings at the Museum.
Docents enjoy benefits, including special events such as the annual holiday luncheon and the Meta Kleiman Lecture, exhibition previews, access to Stout Reference Library, and reciprocal benefits at other museums across the state.
