Procedures for Artists Working within Museum Galleries

The Chrysler Museum of Art recognizes the tradition of artists studying and copying master works in museums, and encourages them to use our galleries in this way. To ensure the safety of our collection and its enjoyment by all visitors, the Museum has established the following procedures for artists working within our galleries:

Dry media

Drawing with dry media is permitted in all galleries. Acceptable dry media include pencil, crayon, charcoal, and pastel; markers and pens are not permitted. Artists do not need to schedule their visits to work in these media. Please enter the Museum through the main entrance and check with our staff at the welcome desk. Gallery hosts can provide stools and guidance in finding your chosen artwork. Fixative may not be applied to drawings while in the Museum.

Wet media

Working in wet media is allowed in permanent collection galleries but requires a scheduled visit. Acceptable wet media include oil or acrylic paint, and watercolor. Artists should email artists@chrysler.org with their proposed day(s) to work, along with information on what piece they intend to study, and what media they will use. After consulting our event calendars, we will confirm your visit date, and provide instructions on where to enter the building. Art materials will be inspected for safety upon arrival. Canvases should be of different dimensions than those of the original painting, and will be stamped on the back when entering the building to indicate that they are copies. Solvents should be odorless and housed in lidded, non-breakable containers. No spray materials may be used. Gallery hosts can provide stools and guidance in finding your chosen artwork. Portable easels are allowed. We request that you also bring a drop cloth for your working area.

With these guidelines, the Chrysler intends to encourage the use and enjoyment of our collection by individual artists. Requests to host classes or instruct private groups in the galleries must be reviewed separately. We cannot advertise or otherwise promote the working of any specific artist.