Volunteer at the AGH

Docents are specially trained volunteers who facilitate tour experiences for visiting groups of all ages- after a ten-session training course the role of a docent includes:

• Plan and conduct tours alone and in collaboration with others
• Use inquiry, discussion and interactive strategies to facilitate small groups of all ages, needs, and abilities in connecting personally with the art
• Learn about new exhibitions
• Develop and refine touring strategies
• Adhere to the policies and procedures in the AGH Docent Manual
• Work both independently and as a member of a team
• Use the computer and internet for research and development

Festival volunteers support the AGH Festival, an annual 10-day event in October. The responsibilities of festival volunteers are:

• Set-up, modify, and take-down event spaces when necessary
• Welcome, direct, and assist with seating
• Greet the public
• Support ticket sales on-site

The AGH hosts a wide variety of community-based events ranging from the annual family Picnic, to exhibition openings, to private functions such as weddings, showers and private parties. The responsibilities of special events volunteers include:

• Provide guests with a positive first impression of the AGH by offering individualized service, and by maintaining an approachable manner
• Participate in special events in one or more roles: greeting/directing, coat check, ticket sales, promotion, registration, information desk, set-up, gallery ambassador, usher, and performer assistant.
• Set-up and take-down event spaces when required
• Provide administrative assistance

The Art Gallery of Hamilton operates the Shop at AGH, where we showcase art and design related merchandise and support local and regional artists as part of our Art Sales + Services program. Retail Volunteers responsibilities are to:

• Provide excellent customer service: greet customers, answer questions, and use judgement to determine the level of service required
• Keep up to date on products and convey this information to customers
• Receive, price, and inventory merchandise
• Assist in upkeep of the store’s appearance
• Assist at special Retail events

The AGH welcomes over 250,000 visitors annually from Hamilton and beyond. As a volunteer, you will help run the Visitor Services desk where you will be the first point of contact and instill a positive impression of the Gallery. You will provide information on Gallery exhibitions, programs and events, as well as process admission, Membership sales, and ticket sales.