What is a docent?
A docent is a tour guide. The term comes from the Latin word docere, which means to teach. Figge docents lead tours of the collection and special exhibitions. They also present slide programs in area schools, churches, and community centers.
Qualifications
Potential Docents must have a strong interest in the visual arts, enjoy public speaking, and have a genuine appreciation of all visitors. Knowledge of art history is helpful but not required.
Requirements
Candidate docents must become a Figge member (at any level), purchase the required textbooks, and participate in training.
Training
The goal of the docent training program is to teach candidate docents how to look at, analyze, and discuss works of art so that they can talk to visitors about the collection and special exhibitions.
Candidate docents will complete an art history class in the fall semester, and learn about the Figge collection, artist materials, learning styles, and tour mechanics. Candidate docents will be assigned a mentor from the active docent group.
Candidate docents are permitted up to two abscences during the fall session and up to two absences during the spring session. Candidate docents are responsible for making up sessions they miss.
Graduation to Achieve Status
Candidate Docents must successfully complete the art history course and other training requirements. The presentation of a sample tour is a key factor in graduating to active docent status.
Active Docents
Docents must attend on-going training sessions for special exhibitions and give a minimum of 15 tours annually. Active docents must be Figge members.
Click here for a printable version of the docent program explanation.
Program Fee & Books
Docent Course: $175.00
-Includes Art History Course and training sessions.
*This one-time fee covers the art history course. Active Docents may audit the course each year without fee.
Payment due: Monday, August 25
Send payment to:
Education Department - Docent Program
Figge Art Museum
225 West Second Street
Davenport, IA 52801
Candidate docents are also required to purchase these books.
- Marilyn Stokstad, Art: A Brief History, 3rd edition (2006) - $99.00
- Francoise Barbe-Gall, How to Talk to Children about Art - $17.00
2008-2009 Training
Click here for a printable version of the 2008-2009 Training Schedule.
Wednesday, 7-8:30 pm
September 17, 24
October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
November 5
Wednesday, 10:15 am - noon
January 21, 28
February 4, 11, 18, 25
March 4, 11, 18, 25
Information:
Ann Marie Hayes, Curator of Education
563.326.7804 x7887
ahayes@figgeartmuseum.org.
Docent Comments
"I found the docent training program to be an enjoyable and educationally rewarding experience. The art appreciation classes and the sessions on the Figge collection were very informative. Through this program I had the opportunity to meet and work with individuals who were very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about art. I look forward to giving my first tour"
Don Wilson, Moline - Class of 2007
"The Figge Docent Program has more than met my expectations. I enjoy the intellectual stimulation, the art education through continuing training, and the opportunity to share art with people of all ages."
Sylvia Martin, Rock Island - Class of 2006
"Being a docent at the Figge has been a great experience. I continue to learn more about art with each new exhibition, and I am able to share my knowledge with others."
Jean Moeller, LeClaire - Docent, 9 years
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