The upcoming year is full of diverse special exhibitions. Now is your chance to experience these and other exhibitions from the inside. Public-contact volunteers work at the seven information desks thoughout the museum, where they greet visitors, give directions, explain daily programs and lectures, sell and renew memberships, escort VIP groups, and work at special events. Most important, these volunteers create a gracious, warm environment for our visitors, enhancing their enjoyment of the wonderful permanent collection and special exhibitions. Public contact positions are available weekdays, weekends, and Thursday evenings. We also have "behind-the-scenes" volunteer opportunities available. These volunteers help our curatiorial and administrative offices by doing research, translating materials, answering phones, photocopying, filing, and entering data.

Benefits

The benefits of volunteering are many. First and foremost is the wonderful environment of the Art Institute, where staff and volunteers work together to make positive contributions to an institution they love. Volunteers also take part in continuing education programs, including free lectures, presentations, and tours, so they can learn more about the extensive collection. There are also Museum Shop discounts, annual recognition events, and the chance to constantly meet new people and make new friends. Volunteers also receive the Volunteer Newsletter, with behind-the-scenes articles about the museum, essential volunteer information, and spotlights on special exhibitions.

Postitions Currently Available

Training is provided for all of these positions.

Weekend Information Volunteers
Information volunteers sit at the nine information desks within the museum (including the main information hub at Michigan Avenue). Volunteers direct visitors to their favorite artists, sell memberships, update visitors on lectures and events, and generally help visitors feel comfortable and welcome. We are looking for warm, outgoing people who like to meet people from all over the world. Both morning and afternoon shifts are available.

Family Programs Assistants
Assistants help staff with family programs that are held on weekends and school holidays/vacations in the Kraft Education Center. Volunteers provide friendly help with family workshops, artist demonstrations, gallery walks, and drop-in art activities. Volunteer assistants also help families enjoy their visit to the museum by distributing information about the day's event or in the preparation of art materials for studio projects.

Behind the Scenes
We are currently looking for volunteers with with flexible schedules to work on special clerical projects for departments across the museum.

Or consider an internship!

Requirements

What are the requirements for volunteering at the Art Institute? A love of the museum and a desire to learn more about the collection. We also require that volunteers become members of the Art Institute.

Download a volunteer application and fax or mail it to:

Michael Mitchell
Manager of Volunteer Programs
The Art Institute of Chicago
111 South Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60603-6404

Fax: (312) 443-0849
E-mail: mmitchell4@artic.edu
Phone: (312) 443-3504