What is the ART DOCENT PROGRAM™ ?

A sequential, interactive art education program essential to all students. Developed in 1984 by art educator and author Barbara Herberholz, this affordable, high-interest enrichment program introduces children to art and our artistic heritage. Docents make monthly presentations based on an easy-to-follow guide. There are eight presentations per grade level based on themes such as Portraits, Birds, Dancers, Line or Color.

What is an Art Docent?
A volunteer who leads tours in an art museum. In the Art Docent Program, parents and teachers bring portfolios of works of art to elementary classrooms and conduct discussions that open the students' eyes to the wonderful world of art. No prior art background is needed to become a docent. Training is available.

What is a Portfolio?
A vinyl case containing 5-8 large reproductions of artworks by famous artists. There are 56 portfolios, each with a different theme.

What is a Portfolio Presentation?
An interactive, 20-45 minute discussion about the art works and artists.
It includes games and activities to help students

• Perceive and respond to works of art
• Understand the role of art in a variety of past and present cultures
• Respond to moods and feelings expressed by the artist
• Analyze and make judgements about artworks according to the elements and principles of art and aesthetic qualities
• Connect what they learn in art to other subject areas
• Learn biographical and historical information about the artists, their styles, media and purposes in creating art

What are the Hands-on Art Lessons?
Students make art using a wide variety of media and techniques: painting, collage, print making, cut paper, etc. Each lesson follows the portfolio’s theme and lists materials needed, a motivation, and how to do it.