The Frist Center’s docent program is a vital component of our organization. Docents are on the front line, meeting visitors and telling the stories of our changing exhibitions. Docents may be the only representatives our guests meet, and their ability to provide a positive experience is critical. Education and curatorial staff work closely with docents to ensure they have the skills and knowledge necessary to perform their services well. Participation in the Frist Center’s docent program requires a significant degree of time and dedication, but the experience is enriching and rewarding.

The Frist Center provides opportunities for docents to participate as either weekday or weekend/evening guides. Weekday docents conduct scheduled tours for student and adults, as well as walk-up tours. Weekend/evening docents conduct both scheduled tours and walk-up tours for adults and families with children.

Qualifications

• Engaging personality and excellent communication skills.
• Strong interest in the visual arts and culture and a genuine interest in teaching others.
• Professional attitude toward fellow docents, Frist Center staff, and the public.
• Dependability and promptness in attending all training sessions, meetings and tours.

Requirements

• An initial commitment of two years. After the first two years, docents may continue year by year.
• Docent candidates must attend all scheduled docent-training sessions.
• All docents must attend exhibition-training sessions, research and prepare tours, and attend continuing education classes as offered.
• Weekday docents must give one tour per week, and weekend/evening docents must give two tours per month.
• To maintain standards of excellence, all docents must participate in an evaluation process.

NOTE: All docent positions are currently filled, and we are not recruiting additional docents at the time. Please check the website for updates about the next scheduled recruitment.

For more information on our docent program, please contact Anne Taylor, Curator of Interpretation, at 615-744-3350 or ataylor@fristcenter.org.