Job Title: Figure Model (Clothed/Unclothed)
Department: Education
Reports to: Studio Programs Manager
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Job Status: Temporary, Assignment-Based
Hourly Compensation: $30.00
Fall Semester: September 26, 2026 - December 04, 2026; potential renewal for future semesters if all parties agree
Deadline to Apply: August 03, 2026 at 12:00pm Eastern
Since our founding in 1901, the Toledo Museum of Art has earned a global reputation for the quality of our collection, our innovative and extensive education programs, and our architecturally significant campus.
And thanks to the benevolence of its founders, as well as the continued support of its members, TMA remains a privately endowed, non-profit institution and opens its collection to the public, free of charge.
SUMMARY
We are seeking a reliable and professional Figure Model to support adult-only studio art classes. Models will pose for drawing and painting sessions for adult students of varying skill levels. Poses may be clothed and/or unclothed, depending on the class structure and curriculum. This role requires comfort working in an educational art instructional setting, the ability to maintain poses for extended periods of time.
Models are treated as professionals and are expected to contribute to a respectful, inclusive learning environment. All sessions are for educational purposes only.
KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES
The Figure Model performs the following essential duties at TMA:
- Pose for adult figure drawing and painting classes as directed by the instructor
- Hold both short gesture poses (1–5 minutes) and longer poses (10–30+ minutes)
- Maintain stillness and consistency in poses to support student art instruction / work
- Arrive on time and prepared for scheduled sessions
- Follow instructor guidance regarding pose direction, timing, and positioning
- Maintain a professional and respectful demeanor in the classroom setting
- Communicate any physical limitations or concerns to the instructor in advance
- Other duties as assigned or required
RELATIONSHIPS
Reports to the Studio Programs Manager as well as other members of the Education team. Works across departments and with other Museum staff as appropriate.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- Minimum 1-2 years of figure modeling experience required (or equivalent experience in performing arts, yoga, dance)
- Experience modeling for college-level or studio art classes preferred
- Familiarity with gesture, anatomical, or long-pose figure sessions
- Background in art, theater, dance, or movement practices
SPECIALIZED KNOWLEDGE, COMPETENCIES AND ABILITIES
- Ability to hold challenging poses for extended periods with minimal movement
- Comfortable with clothed and/or nude modeling in an academic/art setting
- Strong sense of body awareness and physical endurance
- Ability to take direction and collaborate with instructors
- Dependable and professional
- Ability to successfully complete a pre-employment screening to include a background check
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT
- Ability to remain in a stationary pose for extended periods
- Ability to safely move between poses, including seated, standing, or reclining positions
- Awareness of personal physical limits and ability to communicate needs
- Classroom or art studio setting with groups of adult students
- Posing platforms, studio lighting, and controlled environment
- Breaks are provided during longer sessions
The Toledo Museum of Art provides equal opportunity for employment and promotion to all qualified employees and applicants. No person shall be discriminated against in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status or any other status or condition protected by applicable federal or state statutes. The Museum is committed to maintaining an environment in which all employees are treated equitably and given the opportunity to achieve their full potential in the workplace. If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to access job openings or apply for a job on this site as a result of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodations by contacting Human Resources at [email protected] or (567)-666-0387. 