Please help us maintain a safe environment for museum visitors and the art. Enjoy your visit!

Please:

	Refrain from carrying backpacks, large bags, and umbrellas. Instead, make use of the free coat check. For safety reasons, we reserve the right to inspect all items carried into or out of the museum.
	Keep a safe distance from artworks. To protect the art, stay at least one foot away and do not touch the art.
	Supervise children at all times.
	Borrow a stroller. Please, no “baby backpacks.” Strollers are available for free at main entrances. During busy times, staff may restrict strollers to protect visitors and artwork.
	Observe the No Smoking policy. The MIA is entirely smoke-free.
	Keep food and drink out of the galleries. Instead, enjoy refreshments in museum cafés and in the Family Center.
	Use cell phones in museum lobbies and cafés only.
	Observe our photo, video, and sketching guidelines.

Please note: The museum bans weapons of any type in the premises.

Photographing, Videotaping, and Copying Works of Art

A visit to the MIA is filled with memorable moments among wonderful artworks. Here are some ways you can treasure and share highlights from your visit.

May I photograph in the MIA?   

Yes—with a few precautions to ensure the safety of visitors and artwork. If it’s for personal use and without a tripod, feel free to use your still or video camera. Please note: photography or filming of artworks that are on loan to the museum requires prior permission.

How do I know if an artwork is on loan? 

On the label, look for the words “loan,” “lent by,” “private collection,” or the name of a museum other than the MIA. Also, numbers assigned to loaned objects begin with an “L.” To request permission to film, photograph, or copy a loaned object, call our Registration Office at (612) 870-3123 during regular work hours.

What if I want to use a tripod?

Contact the Security Department at (612) 870-3145 to request permission. Please allow 72 hours for approval.

tripod permission form » (12KB .pdf)

May I use my camera’s flash?

Yes, in most places. However, because of the delicate nature of fabric, please turn off the flash prior to shooting textiles.

May I sketch in the galleries?

Absolutely! Just be sure to bring a lapboard or clipboard and use either lead or colored pencils. Also, please keep from using the floors, walls, or pedestals as support for sketching. While in the galleries and packing up to leave, please carry your materials carefully.

May I copy my favorite painting?

Paintings Department staff must review each request to copy or reproduce a painting. To inquire, please call (612) 870-3111 during regular work hours.

If you have any questions, please ask one of our helpful museum guards. Staff at the Security Desk or Visitor Service Desks will also be happy to assist you.