About the Dennos tour program

The Dennos tour program offers dynamic, inquiry-based experiences that empower students to develop visual literacy, critical thinking, and cultural awareness. Through close-looking exercises, hands-on touchable objects, and creative activities, students connect deeply with original works of art and build skills that transfer directly back into the classroom.

Cross-Curricular Alignment: Connects visual art directly to English Language Arts (ELA), Social Studies, Science (materials & properties), and STEAM concepts.
Interactive Learning: Tours move beyond lecturing to prioritize student inquiry, guided dialogue, and tactile or reflective activities.
Adaptable for All Grade Levels: Each tour can be tailored to meet the developmental needs and learning targets of your specific group.

Docent-led tours are available Tuesday - Friday throughout the school year. We request that tour groups be kept to 30 students or fewer, although larger groups can be accommodated by special request. Guided tours are 60 - 90 minutes long.

Scheduling

Please complete a tour request form online. We request that you contact us at least 3 weeks in advance for scheduling purposes. Call (231) 995-1029 or email eceleste@nmc.edu with any questions regarding tours.

Cost

60 students or fewer : $25
Groups larger than 60 students : $50

Scholarships are available if you are unable to cover the costs of your visit or need help with transportation fees. Requests for scholarship funds are made on the tour request form above.

Tour Themes

Elemental (Art Fundamentals & Materiality)
Students explore how artists manipulate form, texture, color, and balance across mediums like glass, wood, metal, fiber, and clay. Featuring hands-on interactions with touchable objects, this tour brings the elements of art and principles of design into tangible focus.

Every Picture Tells a Story (Visual Literacy & Interdisciplinary Literacy)
Focusing on narrative art, students decode visual elements like setting, gesture, and symbolism to uncover story arcs and cultural context. Combining visual analysis with creative writing or sketching exercises, this tour bridges visual arts with language arts.

Learning to Look (Critical Thinking & Inquiry)
A guide to creative process and visual analysis. Students practice slow, intentional observation to understand how materials, techniques, and artistic choices evoke emotion and meaning. This tour builds transferable skills in critical thinking, interpretation, and personal expression.

The Inuit Experience Through Art (Social Studies & Global Cultures)
Students engage directly with one of the premier collections of Inuit art. By examining both historical forms and contemporary expressions, students explore themes of identity, community, and connection to the land—gaining an appreciation for Inuit culture as a thriving, evolving art practice.

Need something a little different?

Museum staff and volunteers are happy to help you design the ideal learning experience for you and your students. Please contact us to start the process. Check out our temporary exhibitions to get inspired.

Reminders for a successful guided experience:

Schedule at least 3 weeks in advance of your visit
Discuss your goals with a volunteer docent before the tour
Plan ahead - preview the galleries for free or online
Make sure you have enough adult chaperones (10 to 1) - review the Museum manners here.
Make nametags for everyone to wear

Hours

Admission