The Mint Museum Annual Report 2008 / 2009

DoCenTs oF THe MinT MuseuM
The Mint Museum’s Docents are volunteer members of the Education Department. They lead
tours and programs, and devote time and professional expertise to help visitors understand
and enjoy works of art in the Museum’s collections and special exhibitions. A thorough
training program prepares Docents with teaching skills and helps develop their knowledge
of aesthetics and the history of art. The Docents look for people who have the ability to
communicate effectively with a group, an education background or strong interest in art, and
a warm and friendly attitude.
FounDers’ CirCle lTD.
The Founders’ Circle Ltd. partners with the Mint Museum of Craft + Design to promote the
appreciation of contemporary craft and design. Founders’ Circle members enjoy national and
international travel opportunities including visits to museums, art schools, artists’ studios and
private collections. The Apprentice Circle, an affiliate of the Founders’ Circle, is specifically
designed for craft enthusiasts up to age 50. The group cultivates supporters of the Mint
Museum of Craft + Design and helps develop collecting skills through hands-on, educational
and volunteer activities.
FrienDs oF THe MinT
The Friends of the Mint was organized in 1965 to stimulate interest in and support of the arts.
The Friends sponsor a series of lectures, featuring nationally and internationally renowned
speakers in the art world, that are open to the public for free with Museum admission.
Lectures are held monthly from September through May. The Friends also visit other
cities, museums and galleries to explore the diverse art scene in different communities.
Membership in the Friends is required for these trips.
MinT MuseuM AuxiliAry
Organized in 1956, the Auxiliary was formed to receive and administer funds exclusively for
the Mint. The Auxiliary raises money through its annual Room to Bloom celebration, Mint to
be Yours Tag Sale and additional events. Proceeds go to purchase acquisitions for the Mint
and to fund educational projects. Active and Associate members may sponsor or co-sponsor
candidates who show an interest in the Mint and a willingness to participate in programs and
projects which benefit the Museum.
young AFFiliATes oF THe MinT
The Young Affiliates of the Mint group (YAMs) was established in 1990 to encourage young
professionals to become involved with the Museum. The YAMs sponsor year-round social
events, such as the summer Mint After 5 series, featuring live music on the rooftop of the Mint
Museum of Craft + Design, as well as the annual Black & White Gala and Derby Days event.
Educational opportunities include the Artitudes series, which combines evening socials with
lectures on art-related topics, and allows members to explore the local and regional art scene
through gallery crawls, hands-on activities and visits to area museums.
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