Clay Art Educator / Studio Assistant
The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts — Highlands, NC
The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts seeks a Clay Art Educator/Studio Assistant to provide individual and group ceramics instruction to people of all ages and abilities. With a focus on introductory-level courses, the artist-educator will teach youth classes, adult classes, and Art by Appointment sessions, depending on demand. Additional responsibilities include maintaining a classroom-ready studio and assisting with glazing and firing processes.
The ideal candidate will be able to design curriculum for both children and beginning adults. Ceramics training is required; an education background or teaching experience is preferred. Candidates who want to make a difference in a growing organization and who thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment are encouraged to apply.
Position Details
Title: Clay Art Educator/Studio Assistant
Reports to: Director of Ceramics
Classification: Full-time, Exempt
Schedule: Five days per week, 9 am – 5 pm, on a rotating schedule: Tuesday–Saturday for two weeks, then Monday–Friday for two weeks
Salary and Benefits
This is a full-time, salaried position with a compensation range of $40,000–$45,000, depending on experience. Benefits include 19 days of PTO and 9 paid holidays, short-term and long-term disability coverage, health reimbursement (QSEHRA), and a 403(b) retirement plan with up to5% employer match.
Responsibilities
Teaching
- Plan and propose classes and curriculum for the ceramics program (youth and beginning adults) to the Director of Ceramics.
- Provide descriptions of offerings to the Director of Ceramics for submission to marketing staff.
- Photograph and document studio activity, classes, and workshops for The Bascom's promotional purposes.
- Develop a schedule of offerings that reflects current demand and builds opportunities for new or expanded audiences, especially families with young children.
- Teach classes as assigned by the Director of Ceramics.
- Identify and track the materials and equipment needed to deliver the ceramics curriculum.
Classroom Preparation and Maintenance
- Maintain the studio space and equipment used for ceramics education.
- Trim, glaze, finish, and ship student work as part of the private class format; load and unload kilns; mix glazes; and perform other studio upkeep and general operating duties as assigned.
Studio Community and Environment
- Engage with students, studio members, and visitors to share the opportunities of the studio and classroom programs.
- Support a positive, upbeat studio environment while helping users follow proper protocols for clay processing and safety.
- Process ceramics studio sales and provide customer service to the public as needed.
- Serve as studio manager on an as-needed basis.
Special Projects
- Support ceramics programs and events such as artist talks, soda kiln activities, the Bascom Clay Symposium, Empty Bowls, the annual gala, and other duties as assigned.
- Special teaching or demonstration opportunities may be available, according to the talents and interests of the employee.
Other Responsibilities
All Bascom employees are ambassadors of the organization and should expect to welcome the public and our constituents. The Bascom staff is a small team, and all employees are expected to participate in weekly staff meetings and other official staff and Bascom functions.
Qualifications and Skills
- A college degree is preferred, with particular interest in candidates holding a BFA or a background in arts education; equivalent work experience will be considered.
- Experience producing a body of artwork, demonstrated in an artist portfolio, is preferred; alternatively, experience developing arts education curriculum, demonstrated through curriculum plans.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and as a successful team member.
- Ability to communicate with diverse audiences in a professional manner.
- Demonstrated success multitasking in a fast-paced environment.
Opportunities
The artist-educator may work on their own projects in the ceramics studio on their own time. In addition to dedicated studio space, the position includes a monthly allowance of one box of clay; additional clay may be purchased through the studio.
With sufficient accomplishment, the artist-educator may have opportunities to sell work in the studio and in The Bascom's retail space and may contribute work to the two annual Pottery Shows and Sales (60/40 commission split, artist/Bascom).
Application Process
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Please submit the following materials:
- Cover letter describing your interest in the position and what you can contribute
- Artist statement (fewer than 300 words) or education philosophy (fewer than 300 words)
- Resume
- List of three professional references
Pay: $40,000.00 - $45,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 403(b)
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
Experience:
- Clay : 3 years (Preferred)
- Art Education: 2 years (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
- Highlands, NC 28741 (Required)
Work Location: In person
