NKU Graduate Education is hiring: Part-time Instructor in Art & Design (Applican

Overview

Part-time Instructor in Art & Design (Applicant Pool) at NKU Graduate Education. The Art & Design program in the School of the Arts (SOTA) at Northern Kentucky University invites applications for an ongoing pool of part-time instructors to teach in the Foundations program. The ideal candidate will be a passionate and skilled artist-educator with 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.

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 and NKU

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. NKU emphasizes hands-on studio training and critical thinking across art disciplines, with a community of faculty and staff committed to inclusive excellence.

Primary Responsibilities

• Teach foundational studio courses (e.g., ART 130 Creating Visual Form, ART 135 Creating Visual Order) or other studio disciplines as needed, in alignment with departmental outcomes.
• Maintain and work within the department’s curriculum while encouraging exploration of diverse topics and collaboration across campus and the region.
• Deliver engaging, inclusive instruction that aligns 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 contributing to the University’s 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 is located in the Fine Arts Center with appropriate facilities described in the posting.

Qualifications

Minimum qualifications include an MFA in Visual Arts or Design or its equivalent, an active professional creative practice, demonstrated knowledge of drawing techniques, and familiarity with contemporary and 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 may offer opportunities to shape curricula and collaborate with a team of colleagues and students.

College-level teaching experience is preferred.

To apply, please 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 with descriptions/image list)
• Teaching Philosophy
• Portfolio of Student Work (20 images with descriptions/image list)
• Portfolio of Professional Work and Portfolio of Example Student Work may be provided as a website link or as a PDF attachment (9 MB maximum) for each item

Note: Any candidate offered a position will be required to undergo 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.

Posting Details

Requisition Number: 2025F791

Job Open Date: 08/17/2025

Job Close Date: Quick Link: https://jobs.nku.edu/postings/15059