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) 870-3013 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 or e-mail museumguideprograms@artsmia.org.

Collection in Focus Guides

This 35-hour training course held on Thursday evenings and Saturdays over several months prepares volunteers to lead tours of specific areas of the museum’s permanent collection. The program requires a one-year minimum volunteer commitment on Thursday evenings or weekends after training is complete. We are not currently recruiting for this program, but 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 we can let you know when we are accepting applications.  Please call (612) 870-3013 or e-mail museumguideprograms@artsmia.org for details.

Art Adventure Guides

This six-month course trains volunteers to lead Art Adventure thematic tours designed for children in grades K–6. The program was launched in 1991 to complement the museum’s highly popular Art Adventure school program. Art Adventure Guides are enthusiastic, creative volunteers who enjoy working with children, have strong communication skills, and a desire to learn. Art Adventure guides make a three-year commitment that coincides with the school year, September through early June. Training includes a six-month course on the history of art with an emphasis on the museum’s collection. Guides are also taught tour techniques and teaching methods that encourage children to participate in the museum experience. For more information call (612) 870-3013 or e-mail museumguideprograms@artsmia.org. Download the Art Adventure Guide Program brochure (.pdf) ».

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.