Friends of the Institute

Founded in 1922, the Friends is one of the oldest and largest volunteer organizations in American art museums. Members sponsor monthly free lectures, contribute to the education programs of the MIA, and provide a variety of other services (see Volunteer Programs below). All members of the MIA are invited to become members of the Friends. Call (612) 870-3045.

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Internships

The Minneapolis Institute of Arts offers many volunteer internships. These range from one to twelve months in length and up to forty hours a week, with opportunities in each of the museum's divisions: Curatorial, Education, Marketing and Communications, and Development. For information about internship possibilities, museum careers, and the application process, call the Intern Coordinator at (612) 870-3189 or send email to internships@artsmia.org.

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Docent Program

This two-year volunteer study course trains people to lead tours of the museum's permanent collections and special exhibitions. Docents who complete the program are asked to give 40 tours per year for a minimum of three years. A college degree or college-level coursework and/or art history classes are recommended but are not required. Applications for the 2009-2011 program have closed.  We cannot say at this time when another class of docents will be recruited, but we will gladly take the name and address of anyone interested in applying for the next class. For more information, call (612) 870-3013.

Collection in Focus Guides

This 35-hour training course held on Thursday evenings and Saturdays over several months prepares volunteers to lead tours of a specific area of the museum's permanent collection such as the arts of Asia, the Americas, or Africa. This program requires a one-year minimum volunteer commitment on Thursday evenings or weekends after training is complete. The application opportunity for the 2010-2011 program has closed. It is likely the next opportunity to become involved will be in early 2012, when training may be offered on the museum's Japanese and Korean collections. More detailed information will be posted here as it becomes available. In the interim, we would love to tell you more about this program and to collect your contact information, so that we can let you know when we are once again accepting applications from prospective new guides. Please call 612-870-3013 or e-mail sthompson@artsmia.org for details.

Art Adventure Guides

This six-month course trains volunteers to lead Art Adventure tours, thematic tours designed for children in grades K-6. This program involves a three-year commitment. Candidates should possess communication skills, enthusiasm for art and a desire to work with young people. Call (612) 870-3013 for further information and applications. The MIA is not currently seeking new Art Adventure Guides, but will will gladly take the name and contact information of those interested in future opportunities.

Volunteer Programs

Volunteer opportunities for members include hospitality for special events, library assistance, special projects (such as Art in Bloom and Art Perchance), support services, and Visitor Information Center assistance. Call the Friends office at (612) 870-3045 or the Visitor Information Center at (612) 870-3131.