Volunteers
The Wiregrass Museum of Art is always looking for qualified volunteers to help us bring its mission to life by connecting people through art. As a volunteer, you will explore new areas of interest, meet inspiring people, get involved with WMA’s cultural community, attend social and educational events, and learn transferable skills. Volunteer hours are available on either a regular or an on-call basis during weekdays and weekends. Most opportunities are during the day, but some evening hours are available.
Volunteers are encouraged to become members of the Museum, but it is not a requirement.
Docents
Docents are a vital part of the Wiregrass Museum of Art’s mission to educate and inspire audiences through the visual arts and its interpretation. Docents are specially trained volunteers who guide museum tours for school groups and visitors. They facilitate learning about and making a connection with the permanent collection and exhibitions through discussion of the artwork on exhibit.
As a WMA docent, you will have the opportunity to become a more effective communicator and educator by interacting with a variety of visitors, to expand your knowledge of visual art through research and training provided by WMA, to connect with your community and a diverse group of art enthusiasts, and to attend special events and classes just for docents!
Docents are encouraged to become members of the Museum, but it is not a requirement.
Lavonda: “Creatives need a place that fosters that spirit in them and I believe our tours of the museum do just that. It is my hope that we can light that creative spirit and celebrate its power in all of us as we look, study, create, and learn more about art in its many forms.”
Daisy: “The children never cease to amaze me with their insight; their perceptions of the artwork are pure and often wise. Thank you for the opportunity. The educators, Amanda and Brooke, are such an asset to our community!”
Jim: “I docent because I love art. Being a docent forces me to learn about art I’m not interested in, which adds depth to my thinking. And also you can look at art alone and enjoy it. You can read books, listen to music, and look at art by yourself. I think that’s a valuable lesson to share with students — how to enjoy things alone.”
Elaine: “Being a docent is fun! Children are so happy to be on a field trip, seeing new things and producing art themselves! Their energy and enthusiasm is infectious! I leave the museum happier than when I arrived!”
Ann: “ I believe in the value of art; in the creating of it and the lessons learned from it. I believe in the value of young people and the joy of a shared learning experience. Both are worth the investment of time. Being a docent also provides an avenue to express my appreciation to my community for their investment in a quality art museum.”
Annamarie: “When the museum was growing, my family was honored to remember my grandmother’s artistic nature which found expression in her 50s and 60s. Though I practice art through drama and the written word, I have tremendous respect for fine artists who create with paint, metal, paper, and wood. My teacher’s heart feels great joy when students encounter a visionary, make connections between images and ideas, and gain a new appreciation for their own imaginations. And, of course, Pablo Picasso said it so well, ‘Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.’”
For further information, email Education Director Brook McGinnis
or call (334) 794-3871