Part-time Instructor in Art & Design Foundations

Position Title

Part-time Instructor in Art & Design Foundations

Fixed Term

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 foundational studio courses in Art & Design. We seek a passionate and skilled artist‑educator to teach foundational studio courses. 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 database of instructors for future instructional needs.

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. The department has 17 full‑time faculty and 4 full‑time staff that embrace a comprehensive hands‑on approach, working with materials and techniques while developing critical thinking skills related to various art disciplines and studio training.

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. 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.

• Deliver engaging 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, encouraging 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.

Mentor students, manage studio operations, and provide direction and guidance for advancing the University’s strategic priorities. The foundational studios are equipped with instructor stations, smart technology, and ample student workspace. The drawing studio (FAC 415) is located in the Fine Arts Center and features state‑of‑the‑art lighting, natural north‑lit ceiling windows, ample room space, drawing chairs/desks, figure model stand, large still‑life closet, and overhead screen with projector.

Minimum qualifications include an MFA in Visual Arts or Design (or equivalent), an active professional creative practice, demonstrated knowledge of drawing techniques, and strong proficiency in contemporary and historical practice. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to fostering a positive learning environment. College‑level teaching experience is preferred.

• Cover Letter outlining qualifications
• Curriculum Vitae
• Names and Contact Information of 3 references
• Artist Statement / Research Interests
• Portfolio of Professional Work (20 images of personal work with descriptions or image list, may be a link to a website or PDF attachment)
• Teaching Philosophy
• Portfolio of Student Work (20 images of student work with descriptions or image list, may be a link to a website or PDF attachment)

Questions regarding the nature of the position should be directed to Julia Sebastian, Foundations Coordinator, via email: sebastianj
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