Tour Themes

Our tours are designed to enrich classroom learning, while also fostering wonder, critical thinking, creativity, and lifelong learning. Scroll to view the variety of engaging experiences available to both school and community groups.

School tours are offered Wednesday through Friday, are free, and are approximately 60 to 90 minutes s in length.

Art | Fundamentals

Meet the Museum

A great highlights tour for visitors of all ages, groups explore the Museum to learn multiple ways of looking and talking about art.

Available after 11am. Request now.

Elements of Art

Examine artists' use line, shape and color in two- and three-dimensional works of art. Additional elements and/or principles of design can be added as requested.

Available after 11am. Request now.

Methods & Materials

CHOOSE FROM: Glass, Photography or Sculpture

Delve into the history and techniques of a particular medium while viewing how artists turn the ordinary into extraordinary!

Coming in the Fall of 2012: Explore the work of noted photographer Suzanne Opton in her special exhibition Many Wars. For more information, click here.

Available after 11am. Request now.

Art | Connections

	ABCs of Art This program introduces young learners to great works of art by connecting word and images. Available after 11am. Request now.
	Animals in Art Tours explore the Museum in search of animals, discussing habitats and traits as represented by different artists. Add LIVE ANIMALS to your tour! In addition to exploring the collection, meet live animals and their trainers from the Virginia Zoo. Additional fees apply. Available after 12pm. Request now.
	People and Places How do painters and sculptors capture the likenesses, clothing, setting and expression of the people around them? Selected works of art help to provide answers as groups tour the Museum’s collection. Available after 11am. Request now.
	History & Science of Glass Investigate history through the lens of glass, then visit the Glass Studio for a demonstration in the science of glassblowing. Whether discussing Roman vessels, physical states, forces of motion, or just appreciating artists at work, there is something for everyone to learn from the art of glass. Click for printable poster. Tour is 1 hour and 30 minutes. Available from10am-11:30am only. Request now.

Art | History

	Influences of Greece and Rome Investigate the enduring influence of ancient Greece and Rome over a span of several centuries. Available after 12pm. Request now.
	Stories in Art From the time mas was created, stories have been passed down from generation to generation. Meet heroes, animals, and gods and goddesses from around the world. Tour may include the Greco-Roman, African, Near East, and Mesoamerican galleries. Available after 12pm. Request now.
	American Art, American History By analyzing works of art from the Colonial Era through the 19th century, groups survey the history of the United States. Let us know what you are currently studying, reviewing or about to embark upon and we can tailor your visit! Available after 11am and until December 1, 2012. Request now.
	Art as a Primary Resource Uncover life in 19th-century Norfolk through the family belongings, letters and lives of the local merchant Moses Myers and his family. Tour of the entire house is 90-minutes, which includes both public and private spaces occupied by the family. Shorter tours can be scheduled. Available after 10am. Request now.