All works of art in the Museum’s permanent galleries and in some exhibitions may be sketched or copied, for non-commercial purposes. Inquire at the Information Desk regarding current special exhibitions in which sketching or copying is permitted. The following rules must be followed when sketching or copying:

Dry Medium

• Only pencils, colored pencils, pastels, crayons or charcoal are permitted.
• All sketching must be done at least 4 feet away from objects.
• Compositions of copies must vary by at least ten percent (10%) in total area from the original and must, on the back, be stamped Davis Museum and Cultural Center, Wellesley College and marked as a copy. Original size can be determined by requesting this information from the Museum’s Registrar.
• Size of sketchpad may not exceed 16 x 20 inches.
• Portfolios, containers, and large bags are not permitted in the galleries and must be checked at the Information Desk.
• If an easel is used, it may only be set up under the supervision of security personnel and may not be left unattended at any time. No additional equipment is permitted (i.e.: lights, ladders, extension cords, etc.).
• Due care must be taken to prevent the blocking of isles and doorways. Artists should not overly obstruct the view of any works of art and must cooperate with Museum Security if asked to move.
• Artists may work any time the Museum is open but should be packed up and ready to exit 10 minutes before closing.
• Groups and classes must make appointments in advance, and any questions regarding specific needs or a project should be directed through the Security Manager’s office.

Wet Medium

• Use of ink, watercolors, acrylic/oil paint or any liquid medium is permitted only with advanced permission. Please contact the Museum Security Manager to schedule work time and obtain a permit. This will prevent conflicts with scheduled tours or events that could be disruptive to the individual and will prevent the potential for crowding in the galleries that could be dangerous to the objects.
• Portfolios, containers, and large bags are not permitted in the galleries and must be checked at the Information Desk.
• Work can only be scheduled Tuesday through Friday, from 11:30am - 4:30pm when the Museum staff is available in case of an accident.
• Easels may be set up under the supervision of the Security Manager or Museum Registrar and must be at least 6 feet away from all works of art.
• Due care must be taken to prevent the blocking of isles and doorways. Artists should not overly obstruct the view of any works of art and must cooperate with Museum Security if asked to move.
• Artists must supply an adequate drop cloth (covering approximately 5 feet by 5 feet).
• Compositions of copies must vary by at least ten percent (10%) in total area from the original and must, on the back, be stamped Davis Museum and Cultural Center, Wellesley College and marked as a copy. Original size can be determined by requesting this information from the Museum’s Registrar.
• Containers of liquid must be tip/spill proof, must remain on the drop cloth at all times, and are not permitted near the art work.
• Neither easels nor equipment may be left unattended at any time. No materials may be left on the Museum’s premises overnight. The Museum assumes no responsibility for the loss of material or personal property.
• In the event of accident, the Security Manager and/or the Museum Registrar must be contacted immediately so that an incident report may be prepared. Artists are responsible for any damage to works of art or building surfaces.
• The Security Manager will inspect the area for any damage and to ensure that it is cleaned before the artist leaves.
• Special arrangements can be made to accommodate groups and classes. Please contact the Museum Security Manager at least two weeks in advance of the visit to discuss the arrangements.