With no end in sight to soaring temperatures for several more months here in Florida, museums and art galleries make for cool and enticing outings. Museums and galleries are thrilled that you are visiting but a few common sense social conventions are worth reviewing before you arrive.
· The most important thing to remember is that there’s no right or wrong way to look at art.
· The operative word here is “look”. Touch with your eyes, not your hands. Oil and dirt from fingers and hands can damage valuable paintings, ceramics and other items on display. Refrain from touching anything, even when there is not a sign that says “Do Not Touch” or “Do Not Sit.
o NOTE: In some museums, there is a section just for kids that might be “Hands On”. These are awesome places for a little creativity, but make the sure that “hands on” stays in the hands on department!
· Most museums and galleries have a “No Photography” policy. Ask if you can take photographs, even without a flash. This is not an “ask forgiveness” moment. Cell phone photos and videos are still photos. It’s not just your photos that are harmful—it’s the light and heat produced by multiple photos over a long period of time that can damage valuable items—you don’t want to be part of the problem.
· Use inside voices. While yelling through the galleries might produce a cool echo, it will also produce a few not-so-cool looks from patrons who were expecting a quiet visit.
· Be careful with large purses or backpacks. You don’t want to knock over the Ming Vase or anything else--priceless or otherwise. Leave the big bags behind or ask if there’s a locker you can use--better safe than sorry.
· Turn your cell phone off in any public building. The marble floors and high ceilings of a museum or gallery will only make your Cee Lo Green ringtone more noticeable. If you must leave your phone on, turn it to vibrate or silent.
· If you are lucky enough to have a docent help you (a docent is a trained museum volunteer who will guide you through the exhibits), listen and be respectful. Questions are usually welcome and the docent will appreciate them at the right time. They will also appreciate your courtesy.
· If you have a question or don’t know where to go or what to do, ask the docent, a staff member or someone from security.
Objects that are on exhibit in a museum may belong to the museum, or might belong to a collector, an estate or it may a travelling exhibit. The museum itself, though, is an important asset to your city. It enhances the lives of all citizens and contributes to the charm and attractiveness of the place where you live. Cultural activities attract people and new businesses to the city. Treat the museum with all the respect that you would treat your own treasures—this treasure is partly yours, too.
