DOCENTS AT THE EDWARD HOPPER HOUSE
Are you interested in art, history, or historic houses? Do you enjoy sharing your knowledge and passion? Be a part of a special family that ensures that the Edward Hopper House preserves this iconic artist's legacy.
As a Volunteer Docent at the Edward Hopper House, you will gain and share fascinating information about Edward Hopper’s art and life. You'll also receive free admission to the Edward Hopper House, along with a Docent ID card which brings free admission to dozens of area museums. Take advantage of discounts on gift shop items and on admission to special programs. Every year we celebrate our wonderful Docents at our Annual Docent Appreciation Reception!
Submit an application, below.
Submit an application, below.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What previous experience is required?
Our volunteer docents come from all walks of life, many with little or no previous formal education on the subject art. We seek people who enjoy interacting with groups from around the world, sharing the experience of the Edward Hopper House and engaging each visitor in a way that makes their visit here memorable and fulfilling. What is it like being a docent at the Edward Hopper House? Visitors begin at the gift shop where they are given a very short orientation by the personnel there. The docent then brings the visitors into the Edward Hopper Memorabilia Room where photographs, artifacts and artworks recreate the events and experiences of Edward Hopper between the time of his birth in 1882 to the time he took an apartment in Manhattan in 1910. Hopper’s upstairs bedroom, looking out over the Hudson River, is also available. The Hopper House has Rotating art exhibits in its larger space. You will be given some background on each artist and exhibit, which you may decide, at times, to share with visitors. |
How much time do I need to commit to volunteering?
The Edward Hopper House is open to visitors from Wednesday to Sunday, 12 to 5 pm. Docents are present in the galleries Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 12 to 5 PM. There are two docenting slots,one from 12-2:30 and the second from 2:30-5:-00 pm. Public tours take place every Saturday at 1:00 PM. Docents are asked to attend training sessions the second Monday of each month at 2 P.M. We ask that volunteer docents commit a minimum of 5 hours a month, and donating additional time is always welcome! What is involved in the training program? Training consists of two informational meetings at the Hopper House, after which the docent-in-training will accompany an experienced docent on a tour. When ready, the new docent will begin conducting tours on his or her own. The goal is for the docent to be able to read the audience and adjust the tour to meet the needs of each group. Docents should feel comfortable interpreting the Hopper House in a unique way, covering some standard topics, but feeling free to express their unique perspective and engage conversationally with their group. |
How do I apply? What happens next?
You will be contacted by phone or email to schedule a meeting at the Hopper House Art Center. If your availability and personal goals align with the needs of the volunteer docent program, we will work out a training plan to suit your schedule.
You will be contacted by phone or email to schedule a meeting at the Hopper House Art Center. If your availability and personal goals align with the needs of the volunteer docent program, we will work out a training plan to suit your schedule.
