Docent-led tours

School groups are invited to schedule an interactive docent-led tour of current exhibitions. Designed to increase visual literacy on an age-appropriate level, these tours can be customized to address classroom topics or specific interests.

For more information, contact tour coordinator Kris Iden >

School group tour booking form (pdf) >
Adult group tour booking form (pdf) >
Directions for unloading, parking, and loading buses (pdf) >
General car parking map (not for school or bus groups) (pdf) >
Visitation guidelines (pdf) >
Elements of Art (pdf) > [Coming soon]

Early Visions

Each spring, the Museum offers this six-week program in partnership with the Boys and Girls Club. U.Va. student volunteers and Club members are paired in mentoring relationships and embark on creative activities that help the children explore the Museum's exhibitions, and relate their discoveries to their own lives. Student volunteers participate in UCARE (University and Community Action for Racial Equity), a diversity and racial sensitivity training program.

Family Art JAMs

This popular series of programs combines age-appropriate tours with hands-on art activities that make the Museum's exhibitions accessible to young children. Introducing new art materials and techniques challenges children to think in new ways, and interactive tours help them develop the confidence to talk about art. By asking parents or other adult family members to serve as assistants, models, and collaborators, Family Art JAMs create an enriching experience for the whole family.

Reservations are required; drop-ins are permitted only if space is available. Family Art JAMs are offered on both Saturdays and Sundays at the following times:

1-3 pm: 5-7 year olds and their grownups
3-5 pm: 8-12 year olds and their grownups

Fees
Museum members: $15 for one adult and 1-2 children.
Non-members: $20 for one adult and 1-2 children.
$5 for each additional child or adult.

For a schedule of upcoming sessions, please see the Museum's calendar.

Kid's College

On Reunions Weekend, children are invited to take part in exciting hands-on art programs while their parents are free to enjoy other events across Grounds. Children participate in fun activities designed to introduce them to the Museum, expand their understanding of the visual arts, and engage them with current exhibitions.

Teachers' pARTy

At the beginning of each fall academic semester, all educators from area public and independent schools are welcome to join us for a preview of the new Writer's Eye selections from current exhibitions. The evening will also include an introduction to the Museum's educational programs and a light supper.

Writer's Eye

Each year, this program challenges writers of all ages to use selected works on view as inspiration for original poetry and prose. Area educators and their students are invited to schedule a visit to the Museum for a docent-led tour that incorporates both English and art SOLs (Standards of Learning), and then enter the writing competition. Submissions will be judged by a distinguished panel and winning entries published in the annual Writer's Eye Anthology.

Please note: The 2011 Writer's Eye Awards Ceremony will be held on Sunday, March 25, 2-4 pm, in the Newcomb Hall Ballroom.

Key dates and information regarding Writer's Eye 2012 is forth coming. For upcoming Writer's Eye events, also see the Museum's calendar.

For more information about any of these programs, please contact the education department at 434.243.2050 or email >