KC Reporter

Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art in Kansas City, Missouri, is seeking volunteer docents to join its expanding program. This initiative aims to enhance its offerings in light of the upcoming Main Street Streetcar Extension and the FIFA World Cup in 2025.

The museum’s docent program is designed to improve accessibility and cultural responsiveness. It offers flexible training sessions and varied volunteer roles suitable for different interests and schedules. Volunteers collaborate with the Learning and Engagement staff on programs such as multilingual tours, docent-led initiatives for medical students and healthcare professionals, and new community-requested activities like extended school tours and art-making sessions.

The program invites applications from individuals who have an interest in contemporary art, regardless of prior art experience. "The roles are open to all and include training—no art experience is required to apply, just a genuine interest in contemporary art and ideas, and a willingness to learn and collaborate with museum staff, visitors, and community partners."

Interviews for new applicants will start in May, with training commencing in Summer 2025. The museum continues to offer free tours, supported by volunteers, members, and donors. The docent program is backed by the Family of Mary Beth Smith.

Kemper Museum, established in 1994, is noted for its presentation of modern and contemporary art. It houses nearly 1,500 artworks and offers several exhibitions annually, highlighting emerging and mid-career artists as well as those from underrepresented groups. It is housed in a building designed by Gunnar Birkerts.