Frequently Asked Questions

What is the museum’s policy concerning photography in the galleries?

The museum does not permit photography or videography in its galleries. Members of the news media must contact the Public Information Department at (502) 634-2700 in advance of filming. Sketching in dry media is permitted. Requests by copyists to use wet media are subject to approval by the Security Department at (502) 634-2700. Those wishing to obtain permission to reproduce works of art in the collection of the Speed Art Museum should contact the Registrar’s Office at (502) 634-2700. Fees apply to this request.

Sketching Guidelines

• Individuals sketching should remain a minimum of five feet away from artwork.
• The only media allowed for sketching are pencil, conte crayon, and colored pencils.
• The following drawing media are not permitted: charcoal, oil pastel, felt-tip markers, pastels, ink, fountain pens, fixatives, and sprays of any type.
• We ask that artists not hinder normal traffic flow while working in the galleries and for this reason may not work in doorways or within the normal traffic flow pattern of the doorways.
• Only works in the MuseumÕs permanent collection may be copied. Most special exhibitions are loans.

Groups may sketch in the galleries only with prior arrangement with the Sales Coordinator who will insure that they do not conflict with previously scheduled guided tours. Groups on a guided tour have priority over those drawing in the galleries.

Is the museum part of the University of Louisville?

The Speed Art Museum is a non-profit arts institution located adjacent to the University of Louisville Belknap campus but the museum is not affiliated with the university. The museum, however, is a great resource for university students and offers student internships.

Will the museum’s curators appraise art from private collections?

The museum’s curators do not appraise or estimate the value of art from private collections. Their role is to care for and exhibit the museum’s art collection and offer special traveling exhibitions. Local art dealers are a more appropriate resource for appraisals. A list of appraisers is available by calling the museum at (502) 634-2700.

Does the museum offer art classes?

The museum offers children’s art camps and workshops as well as adult art appreciation classes. The museum does not offer studio art classes at this time.

How does the Speed Art Museum comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act?

The Speed Art Museum welcomes people with special needs. The museum’s parking, building, and galleries are accessible to persons with disabilities.

• Designated parking for persons with disabilities is available in the parking garage. The museum entrance nearest the parking garage is accessible to persons with disabilities.
• Elevators are located on all three levels of the museum.
• Wheelchairs are available at no cost. Staff members at the Visitor Welcome Center may assist with wheelchair pick-up. Wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• TTD telephone access is available at (502) 634-2706.
  

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