WHAT IS A DOCENT?

The word "docent" comes from the Latin verb "docere" which means to instruct, teach or inform. At the Kelowna Art Gallery, Docents form a volunteer team integrated with Education services. This team is especially trained to interact with the public on an education level. Essentially, a Docent is a link between the gallery's exhibitions and the public.

HOW DO I BECOME A DOCENT?

You are required to attend a minimum of four meetings, taking place in September of every year. You can join anytime but require this training in the fall.

HOW MANY HOURS WILL I HAVE TO VOLUNTEER?

You are required to attend each exhibition information meeting scheduled the first Monday morning following each exhibition opening reception, (approximately once every six weeks) plus approximately 2 - 2 1/2 hours per week, for the duration of the exhibition.

DO I NEED TO HAVE AN ART BACKGROUND?

We will give you the training needed to lead dynamic tours. Your training will include learning styles, Art history, design awareness, child development and teaching methods. It is guaranteed to give you all the preparation you need to feel confident in working with a group of small children in an active program.

WHAT DOES THE SCHOOL TOUR PROGRAM AT THE GALLERY ENTAIL?

In September teachers receive copies of the School Tour Program brochure. They Phone the gallery to register for their favorite program. From this schedule, Docents lead tours of young people through the gallery's changing  exhibitions. There are three components to the gallery's tour program; the INTRODUCTION, the GALLERY TOUR and the HANDS-ON ACTIVITY. Each tour is approximately 1 1/2 hours and Docents are required to arrive 20 minutes before the tour and stay to clean-up the classroom and prepare for the next tour. There are tours scheduled every morning and afternoon, Tuesday to Friday.

WILL I HAVE TO WORK ON MY OWN? WHO WILL ASSIST ME ON THE TOURS?

As soon as you start the Docent Training Program you will be teamed with a senior Docent, who will provide you with encouragement and comraderie. Once you feel comfortable, you will start leading the INTRODUCTION, then the HANDS-ON ACTIVITY and finally the GALLERY TOUR. When you are confident in all these areas, you will be encouraged to lead the entire tour on your own. We endeavor to have at least two Docents at every tour, one as tour leader and the other as assistant.

WHAT DO I GET OUT OF MY COMMITMENT?

As a Docent, you will receive a free membership (valued at $25.00) exhibition catalogues, the opportunity to meet curators and artists, the chance to attend workshops, artist talks and information sessions regarding current issues in Art Education. You will meet wonderful individuals who share a common interest, a keen interest in the visual arts.

 If you are interested in becoming a Docent please contact Renee Burgess, Public Programming Coordinator  (250) 762-2226 to set up a meeting. Please bring a current resume.