Program Inquiry Form

Bring Tacoma Art Museum into your school! Our teaching artists, museum educators, and volunteers lead interactive programs that combine visual art, storytelling, and hands-on activities to support learning and creativity.

Choose a program focus:

• Highlights – Explore key artworks and must-see pieces from the museum’s collection. Great for first-time participants or groups seeking an overview.
• Current Exhibitions – Dive into the museum’s temporary and rotating exhibitions, focusing on themes, artists, and stories on view.
• Thematic / Exhibition Focus – Tailor a program to a specific theme or area of interest, allowing deeper exploration of topics, art styles, or exhibition content.

Program Options & Pricing

Small Group – One TAM Museum Educator ($250) 

• Up to 30 students
• 90-minute session
• Presentation paired with a hands-on activity (materials provided)
• Ideal for smaller classes and groups

Large Group – Two TAM Museum Educators ($500) 

• Up to 60 students
• 120-minute session
• Presentation paired with a hands-on activity (materials provided)
• Ideal for larger classes and groups

Full Day – Two or more TAM Museum Educators ($800+)

• Includes all students or members of the school/organization through rotating sessions
• 5+ hours of customizable session time
• Great for school-wide events, art days, etc.

Additional Considerations

• Available exclusively to schools and organizations in Pierce County
• Travel Fees: Programs outside Tacoma include a travel surcharge
• Customization: Additional fees may apply for a tailored curriculum or extended sessions

Educational institutions that are part of our Muse and Districts Access programs receive in-classroom programs at no charge. 

Price: $50 per Educator - 5 minimum 
Audience: K–12 Educators (All Disciplines)
Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM (5 hours)

• 2 hours of instruction
• 1-hour lunch
• 1 hour gallery tour
• 1 hour art-making (optional)

Program Description:

This half-day professional development program introduces K–12 educators to Visual Thinking Strategies (VTS), a student-centered, evidence-based method that uses images to develop critical thinking, communication, and collaborative inquiry.

Participants explore the theory and practice of VTS, including its cognitive science foundations and facilitation techniques, and learn how repeated engagement with visual art can enhance observation, reasoning, empathy, and student-centered learning.

Through interactive exercises, live practice sessions, and a guided gallery experience with a museum curator or artist, educators gain practical tools to implement VTS in classrooms and museum settings. By the end of the session, participants will feel confident integrating VTS to promote inquiry-driven, inclusive learning environments.

Key Benefits:

• Learn how to lead VTS discussions in the classroom or museum
• Gain practical strategies to connect art with curriculum goals
• Explore cross-disciplinary applications for all subject areas
• Experience student-centered, inquiry-based teaching in action

Educational institutions that are part of our Muse and Districts Access programs receive teacher professional development at no charge.

Tacoma Art Museum can participate in community events, festivals, and local gatherings to share art experiences, engage with the public, and represent the museum. Our team brings interactive activities, informational materials, and opportunities for hands-on creativity for all ages.

Program Highlights:

• Museum tabling at festivals, fairs, and community gatherings
• Interactive art activities and mini-workshops for attendees
• Opportunities to share information about Tacoma Art Museum programs, exhibitions, and memberships
• Designed for all ages and group sizes

Are programs free?
All programs have an associated cost, except for community events and festivals, which are reviewed and assessed on a case-by-case basis depending on capacity and scheduling. Program fees are listed with each offering.

Educational institutions that are part of our Muse and Districts Access programs receive in-classroom programs and teacher professional development at no charge. Program fees are listed with each offering.

How far in advance should we request a program?
We recommend submitting requests at least 4–6 weeks in advance to ensure availability and proper planning.

Where do your programs take place?
Programs may take place at Tacoma Art Museum, in your classroom, or at off-site community events. Specific locations are determined based on the program type and your request.

Are materials provided?
Yes, all hands-on art materials are included in the program fee.

Are there travel fees?
Programs outside Tacoma may include a travel surcharge.

Can programs be customized?
Yes! Many programs can be tailored for grade level, group size, curriculum goals, or special interests. Additional fees may apply for extensive customization.