Getting Started
When you arrive, check in and get the lowdown on the Museum from one of our friendly Visitor Experience Representatives (VER) at the Welcome Desk.
Ages 0-17 are not permitted entry without adult supervision. Our visitors enjoy walking through our galleries, so no running allowed.
Service animals must comply and be regulated with all ADA requirements. The Tampa Museum of Art does not permit Emotional Support Animals (ESA) on our premise. No pets allowed in the museum.
Feel free to bring sketchpads, notebooks, and other learning tools with you. But, use only pencils in the galleries. Ask a VER for a golf pencil, in case you forget your pencil!
Store away any backpacks, (including purse backpacks) luggage, large bags (11×15 inches), food, drinks, tripods, and umbrellas in a free locker or storage; they are not permitted in the galleries. Lockers and bin storage are located on the first floor. Please ask our VER for assistance at the front desk.
Turn off the flash function on your phone or camera and leave the selfie stick at home. When photography is permitted, it is only without flash. The Museum’s photography policy may change depending on the exhibition; be sure to confirm the current policy with the VER. View the full photography and videography policy here.
Look closer… but not too close. Be mindful of your proximity to the artwork. Please do not touch the art. Also refrain from touching the exhibition cases or leaning on the walls.
Tips for Looking
Take your time. Our galleries are small but filled with amazing art. You can spend time taking a glimpse of all of the work or the same amount of time really engaging with a few select pieces.
Take a closer look. Take a step back. Take a walk around. Have a seat. Even two-dimensional paintings can tell you something new from a different vantage point.
Question time. Engage with the art by asking some questions:
- What’s going on in this work of art? What do you see that makes you say that? What more can you find?
- How was it made? What materials, tools, and techniques were utilized?
- Does the work remind you of anything or evoke any feelings? What are they and why?
Read some labels. If a work or exhibition intrigues you, read the accompanying text. Once you read a label, go back to the work of art. Has your impression of the work changed? Why?