To Be (or Not To Be) a Docent
Museum docent is a title given to a person who serves as a guide and educator for the institutions they serve. The word docent is derived from the Latin word docēns, the present active participle of docēre (to teach, to lecture).
YAM docents are at the heart of our educational programming. They support and lead engagement and education in a variety of ways and serve as ambassadors for the museum. Docents work closely with the YAM Education Team both at the museum and with outreach programming.
YAM Docent Responsibilities
- Commit to volunteer hour
- Attend docent meetings every week during the school year – September through May
- Assist the Education Department in almost every aspect of art education throughout the Museum (based on your strengths and interests)
Docent Opportunities
YAM Tours
We serve approximately 9,000 children a year through docent lead tours of current exhibitions at the YAM for various ages, from preschool to college/adults.
Artmaking in the Education Studio
Most tours include a connected art lesson using curriculum that is developmentally appropriate and based on current exhibitions. Docents assist the Museum Art Educator in studio setup and cleanup, interacting with children, and helping the activity flow.
Art Suitcase Program — Billings Public Schools 4th & 5th Grade
We serve approximately 3,500 children through established Art Suitcase programming that takes place in classrooms. Docents present the Art Suitcase Program and engage students in close observation and critical discussion of the artwork. This requires traveling to schools for a one-hour long presentation per classroom throughout the school year.
4th Grade Art Suitcase 2024–2025
5th Grade Art Suitcase 2024–2025
On Site Classes Studio 2nd Saturday, FAM at the YAM, Summer Art Studio, & YAM Camp
Specially designed art education classes that are open to the public, which include an art making activity connected with current exhibitions. Docents support this programming by engaging children and families in a variety of ways, including touring the Museum and assisting in the studio.
Young Artists’ Gallery (YAG)
This gallery is dedicated to showcasing the work of young artists in our educational partnership programs. Students range from preschool through high school. The Education Team installs 8-10 exhibitions in the YAG every year. Docents assist in installing and de-installing exhibitions.
Research
Opportunities for collaborative and individual research involving current exhibitions and art influences. Docents assist with this research for special projects.
Other Opportunities
As the YAM continues to change and grow to meet the needs of the community, docents are asked if they are interested in participating in committees and projects as they arise.
