Part-time Instructor in Art & Design (Applicant Pool)

Northern Kentucky University • Part-time • Highland Heights, KY, US • 13m ago

Department: School of the Arts

Full Time or Part Time: Part - Time

Purpose of Position

The Art & Design program in the School of the Arts (SOTA) at Northern Kentucky University (NKU) invites applications for its ongoing pool of part-time instructors to teach in our Foundations program. We are seeking a passionate and skilled artist-educator to teach foundational studio courses in Art & Design. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in traditional and contemporary visual practices and a commitment to developing students' creative and conceptual abilities in the early stages of their academic journey.

While there is no specific position associated with this posting at this time, applications will be used to build a qualified and diverse database of instructors for future instructional needs.

ABOUT SOTA

The Art & Design, Music, and Theatre & Dance programs make up the School of the Arts which sits in the College of Arts and Sciences at Northern Kentucky University. Art & Design offers an innovative and engaged opportunity for aspiring artists and designers who seek professional training in the arts. Art & Design has 17 full-time faculty and 4 full-time staff that embrace a comprehensive hands-on approach of working with materials and techniques while developing critical thinking skills related to the various art disciplines and studio training.

ABOUT NKU
Established in 1968, NKU is a 15,000-student, nationally recognized, growing metropolitan university located seven miles from downtown Cincinnati, Ohio. Greater Cincinnati has one of the most vibrant and multifaceted cultural scenes in the Midwest, with the Cincinnati Art Museum, Contemporary Arts Center, 21c Museum Hotel and a plethora of galleries such as The Weston, Carl Solway and Manifest Gallery. Cincinnati offers an outstanding quality of life, a dynamic arts community, and an affordable cost of living. NKU is committed to active engagement with the Northern Kentucky/Greater Cincinnati region of over two million people. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates, but especially from individuals who contribute to the diversity of our academic community.

Primary Responsibilities

The primary responsibilities of this position are to teach courses at the foundational levels ART 130 Creating Visual Form, ART 135 Creating Visual Order or other studio disciplines, depending on departmental needs and the candidate's qualifications. Additionally, to maintain and work within the set curriculum of our course offerings as we encourage exploration of diverse topics and collaboration across the campus and region.

Deliver engaging, inclusive instruction aligned with departmental learning outcomes.
Foster student understanding of form, space, time and composition through observational and media-based work.
Teach basic fabrication techniques, color theory and material exploration.
Guide students in developing critical thinking, visual literacy and problem-solving skills.
Introduce students to historical and contemporary artists/designers, and encourage exploration of cultural, ethical, and social dimensions of art.
Support student development in research, writing, and speaking about art and design.
Maintain a positive, collaborative classroom and studio environment.

Additional responsibilities include some student mentoring, responsible studio management, and provide direction and guidance for advancing the University's strategic priorities of inclusive excellence, student retention, and graduation. The foundations studios are equipped with Mac instructor stations, smart technology, and ample student workspace. The drawing studio (FAC 415) is located in the Fine Arts Center that includes state of the art lighting, natural north lit ceiling windows, ample room space, drawing chair/desks, figure model stand, large still life closet, and overhead screen and projector.

Join a community of dedicated educators and working artists who are shaping the next generation of creative thinkers. Submit your application to be considered for upcoming part-time instructional opportunities.

Qualifications

Minimum qualifications include an MFA in Visual Arts or Design or its equivalent, an active professional creative practice, a demonstrated knowledge of drawing techniques, and well versed in contemporary / historical practice. Demonstrated commitment and/or experience promoting and fostering a learning environment that is supportive of individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. The position includes possible opportunities to shape curricula and be part of a team of committed colleagues and dedicated students.

College-level teaching experience preferred.

Applicants should clearly demonstrate strengths and technical experience in the afore-mentioned areas of expertise. To apply, submit the following items electronically:

Cover Letter (outlining qualifications)
CV
Names and Contact Information of 3 references
Artist Statement / Research Interests
Portfolio of Professional Work **
(20 images of personal work with descriptions/image list)
Teaching Philosophy
Portfolio of Student Work*
(20 images of student work with descriptions/image list)

** Portfolio of Professional Work and Portfolio of Example Student Work may either be a link to a website or submit a PDF attachment (9MB) maximum for each item):

Any candidate who is offered a position at NKU will be required to go through a pre-employment criminal background check as mandated by state law. Questions regarding the use of the website should be directed to the Human Resources Department at nkuhr@nku.edu.

Questions regarding the nature of the position should be directed to Julia Sebastian, Foundations Coordinator, via email: sebastianj4@nku.edu

Applications will be used to create a database of potential instructors.

Minimum Education: MFA or MDes

Preferred Education: MFA

Requisition Number: 2025F791

Job Open Date: 08/17/2025