VisArts-Metro Center For The Visual Arts

VisArts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our mission is to transform individuals and communities through the visual arts. Our vision is a vibrant, diverse community enriched and connected by the visual arts.

Founded in 1987 as a grassroots organization serving local artists and located in the heart of Rockville, Maryland, VisArts has come a long way since our founding almost 35 years ago – from a 12,000-square-foot garage space to a 25,000-square-foot hub of community engagement; and from welcoming 2,500 visitors per year to now more than 30,000 visitors annually.

We provide children, teens, and adults with opportunities to express their ideas, develop their talents, connect with others, and enrich their lives. Our strength is our ability to bring individuals together through shared creative experiences, fostering exposure to new perspectives, respect for each other, and a more connected community.

Our volunteers ensure that our visitors and patrons have an enriching experience at VisArts. They are stationed in each of our galleries and provide visitors with helpful information about its exhibition and the artists featured. As gallery monitors, volunteers will engage with the public and make sure that VisArts is an inclusive, engaging and open space for all visitors, while keeping artwork safe from accidents. 

VisArts currently has three galleries: Kaplan Gallery, Gibbs Street Gallery, and Common Grounds Galley. Gallery Monitors also receive training and enjoy many benefits, which include the opportunity to earn tuition credit toward taking art classes at VisArts, or High School Students may earn SSL hours. Volunteers will learn how to engage with art and discuss it at a professional level. They will also learn organizational and interpersonal skills that will help them in all walks of life and careers.

Openings available:

Wednesday: 12pm - 4pm

Thursday: 12pm - 4pm

Friday: 12pm - 8pm

Saturday/Sunday: 12pm - 4pm

*MCPS students can earn SSL hours during non-instructional hours, such as afterschool, weekends or on no school days. For more information please visit our gallery volunteer information page.

For questions please email Gabriel Soto, Galleries Visitor Services Coordinator: visartsvolunteer@gmail.com