School Programs
SBMA's education initiatives provide enriching art education to local communities.
Our school programs are designed to provide 5th grade students the opportunity to visit the SBMA for a docent-led tour and art activity while engaging in conversations. A variety of programming is offered to local public school systems, including teacher workshops and communities, teacher access to our on-site classes at a significantly reduced rate, and an evolving collection of virtual educational materials and tours for use in the classroom.
Sculpture quest
Students receive a docent-led tour of the galleries and then participate in a studio art activity related to the principles of three-dimensional sculpture. They experiment with basic sculpting processes from concept to completion. The gallery tour focuses on sculptures from both changing exhibitions and SBMA’s permanent collection to engage and inspire students’ curiosity.
Museum morning
Tuesdays & Wednesdays, January through march, 10am – 12pm
Museum Morning is a collaboration between the South Bend Community School Corporation and the South Bend Museum of Art. Visits include a one hour tour with a docent and a one hour in-studio art project. We focus on specific pieces and the ways artists use the elements and principles of art to create strong compositions. By exploring a variety of media, students will learn required vocabulary, contextually. Students will leave the museum with an understanding of abstract art and some of the ways in which artists think about making abstract decisions.
The Art League contributes financial support.
Our Docent Program is Taking Applications!
The South Bend Museum of Art and The Raclin Murphy Museum of Art’s unique combined Docent Program has been serving the community since 1975. Docents are integral to the educational missions of both institutions, providing engaging and interactive tours to adults, families, and school groups.
We are preparing for a new training session starting in May. Previous experience with art and/or teaching is not required. If you are interested in applying for the program, please fill out this form.
