The mission of the Museum of Northwest Art is to collect, preserve, exhibit and interpret Northwest art. MoNA simply could not exist, or thrive, without the support of dedicated volunteers. Being a volunteer is a great way to contribute to our community and help Northwest art flourish. No matter what your skill level or time available, there is a volunteer position that fits your needs. Join us today!

Here is a brief list of volunteer opportunities:

DOCENT PROGRAM

Docents are a diverse and highly committed group of volunteers who are an important part of MoNA’s education program. As gallery staff and tour leaders, they help foster appreciation and understanding of exhibitions and provide a friendly welcome for visitors. They receive first-hand information and training from artists and professional staff about the exhibitions and how to present to the public. In addition, docents are invited to special social and educational activities including excursions to other museums, private collections and artists’ studios.

Involvement as a docent is an enriching, educational experience. Many docents enjoy the opportunity to serve their community, meet people with similar interests and share their knowledge and love of art with visitors. Enthusiasm and a keen interest in art and people are the only skills needed to become a docent; all other training is provided.

Gallery docents receive approximately 12 hours of specialized education about Northwest art. In return, they volunteer as staff in the Museum galleries to welcome visitors, answer questions and provide information about exhibitions. They commit a minimum average of seven hours of service per month.

Docent tour leaders conduct exhibition tours for youth and/or adult groups. An additional 24 hours of training in tour leading skills is required. A background in art or art history is recommended for those planning to lead adult tour groups. Experience working with or raising children is helpful for those wishing to lead youth groups. Docent tour leaders conduct at least two tours per month.

EXHIBITIONS and COLLECTIONS

As an Exhibition Team member, you’ll work under the supervision of our professional curatorial staff learning how to properly install, pack and handle art. Special skills such as basic carpentry and construction are always appreciated. Generally, volunteers must be physically fit and able to lift a minimum of 35 pounds, but research and exhibition administrative help is needed, too.

For more details about the Exhibition or Docent Program, including training and service requirements, contact Lisa Young, Exhibitions and Education Coordinator, at (360) 466-4446 #115 or lisay@museumofnwart.org.

FUNDRAISING EVENTS

MoNA volunteers produce a number of exciting special events each year that benefit education and exhibition programs. Events include:

• MoNA Style, a show and sale of wearable art (February)
• gala Art Auction (June)
• Art & Architecture home tour (September)

As a volunteer, you’ll help plan, produce, publicize and staff these important events. It’s a great way to meet new people and contribute energy and creativity to support art.

MUSEUM PROGRAMS

MoNA hosts a busy schedule of artists’ presentations, “after hours” receptions and lectures. As a Program Volunteer, you’ll help us set up for events, operate audio visual equipment (with training), serve refreshments, take tickets or other special tasks. Or, you may choose to support our Family Art Day (FAD), a popular part of our education program where children and their parents spend a day making art together. FAD volunteers set up tables, assist with hands-on art activities and coordinate cleanup at the end of the day.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

These volunteers serves as important ambassadors for MoNA in its community relations program. Tasks include representing the Museum at local events such as children’s art festivals, civic events and community fairs. Volunteers set up and takedown the MoNA booth, distribute brochures, and may provide simple art activities for children.

ADMINISTRATION

These volunteers are special friends of the Museum and help in a variety of ways, depending on their interests and skills. Volunteers assist staff in grant research and database entry, help with mailings or volunteer in The Museum Store. If you have a skill and a desire to support Northwest art, we have a place for you!

For more information about fundraising events, public programs, community outreach, or administration, contact Greg Robinson, executive director, at (360) 466-4446 Ext. 103 or email gmrobinson@museumofnwart.org.