A horse-drawn stagecoach speeds along a dirt road past a rural cabin, as people and animals look on amid green rolling hills—a vivid scene reminiscent of early community outreach programs bringing neighbors together.

Outreach Programs

Let The James Museum Come to You! 

The James Museum currently offers 75-minute outreach programs within a 30-mile radius of St. Petersburg for Adult groups interested in exploring art of the American West and wildlife art. Each program uses works by Native American and non-native artists from the museum’s collection to bring to life the rich history and stories of the people and land west of the Mississippi.  

Outreach Programs for K–12 schools will be available starting in 2027.  

Get in Touch

  • For more information or to request a program, contact Art & Education Department at (727) 892-4200 ext. 1011 or at [email protected].

Outreach Program Selections

Bring the museum to your group! Each James Museum outreach program provides an opportunity to engage your Adult group with vivid imagery through a PowerPoint presentation accompanied by lively conversation and time for questions and answers. Led by museum staff and docents, these programs are thoughtfully designed for different types of adult audiences, from library groups to senior centers or social and community organizations.

Choose from one of the tours below or plan a custom program with the help of our education team.

Highlights of the Collection

This program is the perfect introduction to The James Museum and provides an overview of the permanent collection including both Western and wildlife art. Participants will discuss the Early West, Native Life, Native American Artists and the Frontier. This is the perfect introductory program for groups who have never visited the museum or would like an introduction to the art and stories of the American West.

After Dark: Nighttime on the Frontier

Explore a special selection of artworks from the Western and wildlife collections that depict nocturnal stories and subjects. After Dark provides a unique perspective of the frontier under the cloak of darkness and includes a selection of works from our wildlife collection. Techniques used by artists to depict night scenes are also discussed. A brief introduction to The James Museum is included.

Headed West in 1845: What Could Possibly Go Wrong?

Through the works of Native American and non-native artists some of the stories of the Western territory during the years of Westward Expansion are revealed. Participants will deepen their understanding of the many challenges and opportunities faced by both settlers and Indigenous communities during this period of great change. A brief introduction to The James Museum can be included upon request.

Inside the Jewel Box

Explore the artistry, craftsmanship and cultural significance of contemporary Native American jewelry as seen through the museum’s stunning collection. From necklaces to belts to bolo ties to bracelets, participants will learn about the traditional and contemporary techniques and materials used by Native American jewelers along with the stories that inspired these one-of-a-kind pieces. A brief introduction to The James Museum can be included upon request.

Custom Programs

The Education team is available to help you develop a custom program for your group. The duration of the program and fees will vary for customized presentations. Contact us for more information and to discuss your group’s special interests.

Things to Know

Please read this section before completing the Request an Outreach Program Form.

All programs are 75 minutes, including the presentation, discussion, questions and answers. Longer programs may be requested, but they will then be deemed Custom Programs and subject to additional fees.

Themed Programs within a 30-mile radius

  • Up to 50 people: $150
  • 51 to 100 people: $250
  • 101 to 200 people: $350

Custom Programs within a 30-mile radius

Please contract us to discuss your group’s interests and length of program desired. Custom 75-minute programs fees start at $250.

A $50 non-refundable cancellation fee is required at the time of booking.

Balance is due in full on the day of your visit. You may pay by credit card or check. A $50 non-refundable cancellation fee is required.

Your program is confirmed when you receive an email confirmation from The James Museum Art & Education Department.

If you need to cancel or reschedule, please email the Art & Education Department as soon as possible: [email protected].

Four adults stand side by side indoors in front of colorful abstract artwork, smiling for the camera.

Request an Outreach Program

Please click the button below to access the online outreach program request form. We will notify you as soon as possible if we are unable to accommodate your group on the date(s) you requested, and work with you to schedule your visit for an alternate date.

Once confirmed, the museum will provide a confirmation email with detailed information regarding your outreach program. Please review and verify all the information is correct, including contact person (day of the program), date, time, location, theme selected, fee and any additional information provided.

Request an Outreach Program

Contact Us

For more information, please call 727.892.4200 ext. 1021 or email [email protected].