Volunteer
Become a BIMA Volunteer
At Bainbridge Island Museum of Art (BIMA), we are dedicated to connecting people with the contemporary art and craft of the Puget Sound region. Our mission—to inspire curiosity, wonder, and understanding—comes to life thanks in large part to the passion and support of our volunteers. Whether you’re looking to give back, meet fellow art lovers, support a local nonprofit, or explore new ways to engage with creativity, there is a place for you at BIMA! We welcome individuals from all backgrounds to help us share the stories and talents of regional artists.
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please click here to fill out an application!
Volunteer Requirements:
- Work according to the BIMA Volunteer Handbook (you will receive this information during your training)
- Pass a standard background check
- Applicants must be 16 years of age or older.
- Adhere to BIMA confidentiality standards and policies
- Be yourself!
Volunteer Benefits:
- Access to special, volunteer only events and parties
- Invitations to membership exclusive events
- Make new friends and be a part of an art-loving community
- Earn High School volunteer credits
- Participate in an exciting and dynamic atmosphere
- Learn about the arts and museum operations
- Give back to your community
Volunteer Opportunities:
Your time, energy, and enthusiasm make a real difference—not only to the museum but to the community we serve. We simply couldn’t do what we do without you. Thank you for considering volunteering with us—we look forward to welcoming you to BIMA!
Museum Store
Help our visitors bring part of their BIMA experience home by volunteering in BIMA’s Museum Store! We’re looking for store volunteers who want to share their talents in the store and provide customer service in a fun, ever-changing environment. The BIMA Museum Store specializes in extending the visitor experience by offering locally produced and designed products that highlight the art and craft of the Puget Sound Region. Store Volunteers will be a core point of contact with all visitors, and must be comfortable with initiating conversation, helping customers to access store merchandise, learning our point-of-sale system, handling money, and maintaining a general knowledge of store vendors and artists. If you have previous retail experience or customer service experience, this may be a great opportunity to assist the store team in extending the mission of BIMA. Requires two 3-hour shifts per month on a regular schedule*
GALLERY DOCENT
Docents at BIMA help perform an important volunteer function of the art museum: welcoming and introducing visitors to the work in BIMA’s galleries. Docents are liaisons to the exhibits and share firsthand knowledge about the art and exhibitions currently on display, while inviting the public to become curious and informed viewers. This role does not require standing or heavy lifting, only your interest and passion in art! Requires two 3-hour shifts per month on a regular schedule*
EVENT SUPPORT
Be a part of the fun and engage directly with art audiences! BIMA holds a variety of events throughout the year to engage members, patrons, donors, and the community. From intimate gatherings in support of an exhibiting artist, to art markets, to our annual fundraiser, there are multiple events every month that could benefit from your help. Responsibilities include set-up, decor, greeting, check-in, bartending, food prep, clean-up, and more!
EXHIBITION INSTALLATION CREW
Experience BIMA behind the scenes! Get the first inside look into the new exhibitions as the exhibition installation crew assists with installing and taking down exhibitions by carefully prepping, painting, hanging, labeling, and cleaning the galleries. As this is a high-touch position, art handling training is required, and results in a more intensive commitment level over a short period of time.
FIELD TRIP DOCENT
Join BIMA in bringing art to schools around the region! The Education Department is always looking for volunteers to assist as docents during school field trips. This includes the Education team and their volunteers visiting schools in the area, but also includes frequent school visits to our galleries where you can share our permanent collection and temporary exhibitions with children of all ages. BIMA has a deep passion for sharing art with youth– if working with kids is something you enjoy, this position is for you!
STAFF ASSISTANT / BEHIND THE SCENES VOLUNTEER
For volunteers who may not prefer front facing customer service roles, this position is designed for you! Assist museum staff with a wide range of behind-the-scenes administrative tasks and project-based assignments. Shift requirements vary by assignment and are arranged with the host department. Minimum commitment for onboarding varies.
AND MORE!
BIMA WILL WORK WITH YOU!
*BIMA has a various and ever-growing list of needs and volunteer positions. The volunteers range from those who can drop in to help at an envelope stuffing party or pour wine at an event, to regularly scheduled shifts greeting guests as a gallery docent. BIMA will work with your schedule, interests and skills to find a position that best fits YOUR needs as a volunteer.
We’re so excited to meet you!
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please click here.
If you have any questions about volunteering, please contact Lexi Labby at lexi@biartmuseum.org.