Museum Guidelines
These guidelines help to ensure a safe and enjoyable Museum environment and serve to protect the Museum's works of art for future generations.
Restricted Items (can be left at coat check):
- Wrapped packages (gifts) or balloons
- Umbrellas
- Toys
- Food or drink
- Radios and CD Players
- Backpacks, bags or purses larger than 12" x 16" x 5"
- Tripods, plug-in cords or camera bags larger than 12" x 16" x 5". Members of the media, visit our Press Room
- Camera flash attachments. If the flash is nonremovable, the camera can be used without the flash
- Shopping bags and plastic bags
Note: Fresh flowers from personal gardens are not allowed in the Museum
Coat and Bag Procedures
Please wear your coat, carry it over your arm, or leave it in Coat Check. A free service, Coat Check is located on the plaza level of the Bloch Building.
Backpacks, bags or purses larger than 12" x 16" x 5" must be housed in Coat Check. This precaution protects the art; damage can occur simply by bumping into an object with a carried bag. Backpacks should be carried by hand or worn over one shoulder to prevent accidental backing into art. Only one bag or purse is acceptable per visitor, however, an additional diaper bag can be carried.
Artist Guidelines
If you wish to draw with a pencil in the Museum galleries, you may do so without permission. Pencil artists are permitted two pre-sharpened pencils and one sketchpad no larger than 24" x 36".
Artists seeking to paint (oil, acrylic, pastels, ink) from an art object in the Museum galleries, must receive prior approval and written permission (please allow two weeks). Please print an Art Copy Request Form or request one at the Visitor Services Desk.
Photography
Visitors are welcome to take personal photographs inside the Nelson-Atkins Building, including photos of most art (note the exception below), but only without a tripod or flash. Flash photography is allowed in only two areas of the Museum: Kirkwood Hall and Rozzelle Court Restaurant. Hand-held video cameras (without lights) are acceptable.
Professional portrait and bridal photography are not permitted inside the Museum. Outdoor photography carries particular guidelines.
Art on view in special exhibition galleries or on loan to the Nelson-Atkins may not be photographed.
Photographs can be taken for personal or educational uses only. No image of the Nelson-Atkins or its art may be reproduced, transmitted, distributed, displayed, published or otherwise used for commercial purposes without written permission from the Rights & Reproduction office.
Members of the media or if you are interested in arranging for commercial photography, see our Press Room.