Visual Arts Faculty - Ceramics

The mission of the Idyllwild Arts Foundation is changing lives through the transformative power of art.

The Idyllwild Arts Academy provides pre-professional training in the arts and a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum to a diverse student body of gifted young artists from all over the world.

The Idyllwild Arts Summer Program provides arts instruction and experiences of the highest caliber to a diverse student population of all ages and abilities.

Idyllwild is a small town located at over 5,000 feet on the western slopes of California’s San Jacinto Mountains. Even though it seems far from the hustle and bustle of city life, the town and campus frequently hosts music festivals, prominent speakers and artists, and community events. Also, it is only two hours by car to Los Angeles and San Diego.

OPPORTUNITY: Ceramics Visual Art Instructor

LOCATION: Idyllwild, CA

REPORTS TO: Chair of Visual Arts

STATUS: Full Time – Exempt

SUPERVISES: None

As full time faculty and member of the Visual Arts department, this position will be responsible for the Ceramics Studio. We are in search of an enthusiastic, encouraging, and lively instructor to teach high school students in traditional ceramics techniques and conceptual advancement (beginning to advanced levels). Responsibilities include running and maintaining either the Ceramics studio areas, instructing students through the techniques of ceramics and providing knowledge and skills for students to build upon.

General Instruction and Duties

• Teach a minimum of 18 hours a week.
• Teach all levels of 3D art, primarily ceramics.
• Manage the ceramics facility.
• Attend all meetings mandated by the Visual Arts Chair.
• Attend gallery openings and department functions.
• Work with colleagues to further develop and advance the Ceramics art curriculum.
• Given the nature of boarding schools, this position requires the ability to work nights and weekends.
  
  

Teaching/Leadership Qualities

We Are Searching For a Teaching Artist Who

• Respects the guidelines and goals of the Visual Art Department.
• Works effectively with teams while simultaneously working independently to run and maintain a studio and generate innovative curriculum.
• Has the ability to diplomatically solve problems and work with different constituencies.
• Is willing to participate and lead social/cultural events and be an enthusiastic supporter of our students and school events and functions.
• Is sensitive to cultural, gender, and economic diversity.
  
  

Personal Qualities/Attributes

• Acts as a model of integrity.
• Understands professional boundaries between students and teachers.
• Respects confidentiality.
• Exercises patience and good listening skills.
• Flexible and has the ability to work under pressure.
• Keep a positive attitude and outlook.
  
  

Qualifications

• Minimum three years of teaching experience, preferably at the university or high school level.
• Background and knowledge of and the ability to handle and maintain ceramics related materials, chemicals, and equipment in a safe and responsible manner.
• Knowledge and experience in wheel-thrown and wheel-based ceramic techniques, hand-building/sculpture techniques, ceramic glazing and surface finishing/decorating techniques, and firing theory and methodology
• Familiarity with studio safety protocol.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience teaching Drawing and Professional Practices
• Experience living in a boarding community or experience with leading and working with youths.
• Experience with international students or international communities.
• Bilingual.
  
  

Education/Experience

Required: BA or BFA in Fine or Studio Art.

Other Requirements

MFA preferred but not required.

• Ability and desire to work within the Idyllwild community, Riverside County, or commute a reasonable distance that does not impede on-time arrival during winter months.
• Obtain and maintain a valid California Driver License, pass a criminal history background check as required by California Education Code Section 44237, and pass a TB questionnaire/test.
  
  

Physical Demands/Work Environment

• While performing the duties of this position:
• Specific vision abilities include close, distant and color vision perception and the ability to adjust eye focus.
• Reaching with the hands and arms and use of hands to manipulate a computer keyboard and mouse; to use tools in demonstrating and teaching ceramics, is required.
• Additionally, the incumbent must be able to converse in clear English both written and orally, over a telephone, email, and in person, and be able to make public presentations.
• Work hours vary and may include days, nights, and weekends.
• Occasionally, incumbent may be required to lift up to 25 pounds, traverse uneven terrain and climb stairs while moving about campus, bend and stoop, conduct tours and show visitors campus facilities.
• Provide their own transportation for local and remote events.