MOCA's guided tours are becoming increasingly sought-after as an essential part of the elementary, middle and high school curricula. As demand for tours increases, so does MOCA's need for gallery teachers.
Join a group of bright, fun, creative and energetic individuals to do something great for your community and for yourself. Learn more about contemporary art and culture as you help visitors do the same using proven effective teaching practices that we help you master.
Initial training is offered 1-2 times each year. A new class will be starting soon. No prior art or education experience required, but it is very helpful.
Do you enjoy having conversations with others about art? Consider becoming a volunteer gallery teacher at MOCA!
MOCA gallery teachers come from all walks of life, but they share a common interest in contemporary art and enjoy creating conversations about selected works of art with our visitors. We invite you to join us for coffee and treats on Tuesday, September 11 at 10am. Learn more about this exciting volunteer offering that provides free ongoing training, opportunities to meet artists, and great perks and benefits (including generous discounts on our Studio School classes).
MOCA's Student Art Start program just keeps growing and we need smart, gifted gallery teachers to provide tours to our student and adult visitors. For additional information or to reserve your place at the coffee, please contact Holly Ackiss, Gallery and Youth Program Manager at 425-0000 x.23 or email at holly@VirginiaMOCA.org.
Call Holly Ackiss at 425.0000 x.23 for information or click here for a gallery teacher application.
Why Should I become a MOCA Gallery Teacher?
At the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art a gallery teacher is not considered an ordinary museum guide, but an informed leader. By presenting art objects and exhibitions to the public, being a gallery teacher is one of the most rewarding activities in self-education and public service.
Gallery Teachers make the artwork come alive and stimulate a dialogue as to the importance of visual learning. Working with contemporary art objects, gallery teachers offer learning experiences that encourage new ideas and stimulate creativity. Gallery teachers provide personal interaction with MOCA visitors by familiarizing and informing students of all ages to MOCA exhibitions.
MOCA Gallery Teachers use inquiry-based strategies asking provocative questions which leads to active viewer participation. Using this method both viewer and docent generate enthusiasm, thus gaining greater appreciation of contemporary art.
Overview of MOCA Gallery Teacher Program
Purpose: To acquire and maintain a volunteer group that is prepared to conduct tours of art exhibits with school groups and adults.
Training: The MOCA education staff organizes and trains the Gallery Teacher corps. Training consists of art history, basic art principles and theories, and focuses primarily on appropriate touring techniques.
Volunteering: Gallery Teachers are expected to attend sessions that coincide with MOCA exhibition openings, do independent research, observe tours and conduct tours.
Benefits
- Expert training in art and cultural history, communication and performance skills, tour methodology, visual interpretation and contemporary art theory.
- Exhibition walk-through with guest curators, curatorial and/or education staff.
- Gallery Teacher luncheons and gifts.
- Complimentary guest passes.
- 10% discount in the MOCA gift store.
- Upon completion of one full year of service, docents are eligible for a 50% discount on one Adult Studio School course per year. Gallery Teachers receive a 20% discount for any additional Adult Studio School course for the given year.
Gallery Teachers are an invaluable part of the MOCA staff. Without gallery teachers, school tours and events for our community would not be possible.
If you are interested in learning more about contemporary art and the MOCA's gallery teacher program please contact Holly Ackiss, gallery and youth program manager, at 757.425.0000 ext. 23 or email holly@VirgniaMOCA.org, or simply fill out the gallery teacher application form. and submit to:
MOCA Education Department
2200 Parks Avenue
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
