Cultural Reforesting Volunteer

As a Cultural Reforesting Volunteer, you will play a vital role in the development and support of the service’s Cultural Reforesting programme.

Tasks and Responsibilities 

• Involvement in the development of the programme internally and externally
• Long term development opportunity of our Study Gallery through a curated display of collection works
• Support of our social media platforms and website support, including content creation, proofreading, ideas and development. We would like to explore ideas such as podcasting and short form video content
• Contributing towards our Cultural Reforesting Explores programme, a volunteer led focus group, drawing upon your interests and experience
• Research into artists, exhibitions and organisations with themes and programmes that could collaborate or contribute towards the programme
• Act as advocates internally and externally for the programme, sharing upcoming programming with fellow volunteers, visitors and partners
• Support of the forthcoming Cultural Reforesting exhibition and Richmond Arts and Ideas Festival 2025
• Support for other areas of our programme linked to Cultural Reforesting, such as elements of our children and families programme
• Representing the Gallery and Richmond Arts Service

What we hope you will get from the role 

• Experience in the development and support of a service wide arts programme
• The opportunity to expand your network and connect with like-minded people and communities from the local area, West London and beyond
• Opportunity to develop interpersonal and communication skills
• An insight into the day-to-day running of a contemporary art gallery and museum crossing the arts, cultural and heritage sectors 
• Opportunities to engage with artists and learn about their practice
• An understanding of the breadth of arts activity offered by Richmond Arts Service 

Training and Support 

We will provide training and an induction which covers all aspects of the role. On-going support and supervision will be provided by staff throughout your time with us. Additionally, there are regular training sessions to supplement and further your initial training, as well as a varied programme of volunteer events and activities to join in, meet people and learn something new!

We offer a tour of our exhibitions with the artist(s) or a member of staff prior to their opening. This will give you a first-hand insight into the concept, processes and artist’s vision behind the exhibition. 

Desirable qualities and experience 

• Interest in environmental issues, such as the climate crisis, and creative projects
• Enthusiasm for meeting and engaging with people and sharing information
• Interest for contemporary art, science and multidisciplinary projects
• Able to answer enquiries in a friendly and helpful manner 
• Willingness to learn 
• Enjoys being part of a team 
• Ability to complete tasks independently 
• Good time keeping 

Availability 

The gallery is open to the public Tuesday to Sunday, 10am – 5pm, with two volunteer shifts a day, 9:45am – 1pm and 12:45pm – 5pm.  

We ask for a minimum commitment of one shift every fortnight, although there is flexibility over scheduling.  

Location 

This role is primarily based remotely, although some activities and opportunities will take place at Orleans House Gallery or throughout the borough of Richmond.

Expenses 

We will cover travel expenses up to £14 per day.  

How to Apply 

Please complete our application form through our website.

Our Volunteers Co-ordinator will then contact you for an introductory chat, to learn more about your interest in volunteering and discuss the role further.  

Background 

Richmond Arts Service is based at Orleans House Gallery. We inspire artists and communities to come together to think differently about the world around us. Playfulness, collaboration, and our commitment to the natural world are at the heart of everything we do.  

We are a free contemporary art gallery with a year-round programme of exhibitions and activities. Our setting – surrounded by rewilded woodland and beautiful gardens, overlooking the river Thames in Twickenham – is a place where art and the natural world are entwined.   

We are proud of our artist-led activities for families and the creative opportunities we offer for our local community and beyond.  

We believe that art connects us.  It enables us to imagine new ways of being and gives us the skills to build the world we deserve. We are passionate about building a vibrant arts community with artists and with you.    

Orleans House Gallery is home to the Borough Art Collection.