The addition of the Modern Wing not only means an expansion of our galleries, but it also offers expanded opportunities to get involved at the Art Institute. The museum is looking for dedicated, reliable, energetic individuals who would like to experience this landmark expansion from the inside—as a volunteer!

Currently we are on the search for public-contact volunteers to work throughout the museum to greet visitors, give directions, explain daily programs and lectures, sell and renew memberships, escort VIP groups, and work at special events. Most importantly, these volunteers create a gracious, warm environment for our visitors and members, enhancing their enjoyment of the wonderful permanent collection and special exhibitions. Public-contact positions are available weekdays, weekends, and Thursday and Friday evenings. All public-contact positions require a 3.5 to 4 hour commitment each week. Two half days of training are required, followed by three on-the-job mentoring sessions with one of our veteran volunteers.

Opportunities

Fellows Concierge Volunteer
This fall the museum will debut a new lounge exclusively for Sustaining Fellows called Fellows. Sustaining Fellows are the premier donor group of the museum, comprised of individuals who provide $2,500 or more in unrestricted museum support each year. Fellows will be a comfortable and inviting museum venue for relaxation, as well as a dynamic space featuring intimate Sustaining Fellows programming, including curatorial lectures and conversations. Amenities include a private check room and restrooms, light hospitality, and a wide range of reading materials, including art magazines, exhibition catalogues, and museum publications. The Fellows concierge will assist with Sustaining Fellows check-in and membership verification; provide general information on Sustaining Fellows and museum activities and programs; and assist with Terzo Piano reservations, scheduling private tours, special programming, and events.

Information Volunteers
Information Volunteers help at our 15 information desks and greeter stations located throughout the museum, including new stations in the Modern Wing. These volunteers are the face of the museum to both our members and our public, and they make sure that everyone who walks through our entrance is greeted warmly and has the information they need to make their museum experience an enjoyable one. Some positions are located at information desks, while others require an ability to stand for periods of time as the volunteers proactively move through the galleries looking for visitors who may need their help.

Ryan Education Center Volunteers
The new Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Education Center, occupying the first floor of the Art Institute’s Modern Wing, is a state-of-the-art facility that will host education programs for families, school groups, teens and teachers. This space doubles the size of the museum's previous education facility and features five classrooms, three large studios, and a new Family Room and Educator Resource Center. The Department of Museum Education is looking for volunteers to assist in welcoming audiences and facilitating programming in this exciting new space. Positions include:

Ryan Education Center Greeters
Vitale Family Room Greeters
Family Programs Assistants
School Tour Greeters
Crown Educator Resource Center Assistant

There are no behind-the-scenes volunteer opportunities available at this time.

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
Associate Director 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