The Art Lover's Illustrated Guide to Enjoying Museums

Here is how to visit the museum like a proper art fanatic.

Note: Dear Reader, if you see this and really like it send me a smoke signal. Actually, let’s avoid the smoke because of the fire department and all. So a like or comment works too. But a smoke signal would be cool. Anyway, I’m going to expand this into a PDF and I’ll finish the work faster if I know you really like it.

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Contents

1. Arrive Comfortably
2. Respect the Space
3. Enhance Your Visit With Guides
4. Timing is Everything
5. Explore the Hidden Gems
6. You Don't Have to See It All
7. Bring a Sketchbook

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1. Arrive Comfortably

Total comfort is key.

Make sure you are dressed in outfits that are comfortable. You will be doing lots of walking or standing. Opt for layers that can be added or removed you might need to adjust according to the museum's climate control. Bring only the essentials or else you risk having to go through a potentially lengthy coat check-in. On second thought, in the winter this might be difficult. So maybe scratch that tip. The point is to be comfortable.

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2. Respect the Work and Space

Map of the Art Viewing Zones

I was in a museum in Florence when I saw a person use a sculpture to rest their phone to take a selfie. I gasped in shock and disbelief. Hurts my brain just thinking about it. So please be respectful and protect the art. Remember that museums have rules to make sure future generations can also enjoy seeing the art as the artist intended. Art is our collective inheritance as human beings.

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3. Enhance Your Visit With Guides

Audio guides provide crucial context.

To learn a ton on your visit, getting a guide is essential. An audio guide is usually not that costly and sometimes it’s free. However, if you can, I recommend getting a tour with a knowledgeable guide because you can ask them questions. Try to book them in advance. The best ones are super excited about the material and you get to support fellow art lovers!

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4. Timing is Everything

I prefer avoiding the crowds at the museum.

Some museums are really strict about this. Book your tickets in advance and arrive ahead of time. Pay attention to the lines when you arrive. Some museums are sold out months in advance or go on sale on specific dates. Again, timing is key. I like avoiding crowds so I tend to seek which hours have less traffic.

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5. Explore the Hidden Gems

Search for the pieces that get you excited.

There are paintings or sculptures everyone wants to see because they are famous artworks. For example, the lines to see the Mona Lisa are crazy. Yet, other less famous but equally exquisite Leonardo da Vinci paintings are paid less attention. Browse the museum’s collection beforehand to find the work most people overlook. There are so many hidden gems out there.

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6. You Don't Have to See It All

Document what you’ve seen or haven’t seen yet.

As an art lover, you have to remember that it’s OK if you don’t see everything when you go to a museum. You can always come back. In fact, it’s always good to leave yourself wanting a little more. For me, it gives me something to look forward to. And you don’t feel as rushed if you accept that. Just keep a record of what you really want to make sure to see.

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7. Bring a Sketchbook

Find something cool to copy in your sketchbook.

They say the best art universities are museums and it’s true. There is so much to learn from the Masters who came before so bring a sketchbook. If you’re starting out, I recommend a small one that fits in your pocket. Use it to copy paintings or any other art you see. It’s a great way to remember what you’ve seen. Years from now, looking through your sketches and notes will bring you immense joy. ⚜

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Anything You Would Add?

I’m curious to learn more from your perspective. (Seriously, I love hearing from you. I read everything you send me—obsessively.)

1. What are your favorite museums?

2. What is a piece of art that you’ve traveled for?

3. Do you have any museum rituals?

4. Did you like this guide?

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You’re invited.

Still Life is growing and I’d love to personally invite you, dear reader, to the Art Chaat. No pressure though. If you don’t join, I’ll be sad but that’s OK I’ll use the sadness to make art. Kidding aside, I’m hoping the Chaat will grow into this beautiful art dialog where we can all learn from each other.

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Your attention is super valuable to me and if you made it this far I appreciate you being here. I hope to bump into you at a wonderful museum someday.