Visual Arts Instructor

Jobless; Palo Alto, Northern (CA, KY); Hybrid; USD 34,000 - 52,000; Part time

Job summary

EPACENTER is seeking a part-time Visual Arts Instructor to lead classes for children and youth aged 3–18. You will design curricula, create syllabi, and teach a range of media in a socially engaged studio setting that values community-based storytelling.

The role emphasizes youth development, collaborative teaching with staff, and ongoing assessment of student progress within a dynamic, accessible 25,000-square-foot space in East Palo Alto.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3–5 years teaching visual arts in a non-traditional learning environment for school-age children.
• Active pedagogical approach to education.
• Deep experience in community-centric design and immersive exhibition design.

Responsibilities

• Design curricula in alignment with youth development and holistic well-being.
• Create a class syllabus and develop lesson plans.
• Teach an assigned class, manage the classroom, track attendance, and oversee class evaluations.
• Collaborate with lead instructors and staff to support community programs.

Skills

Visual arts education

Youth development pedagogy

Curriculum design

Classroom management

Job description

VISUAL ARTS INSTRUCTOR

Job Type: Part-time Temporary,

Reports to: Director of Visual Arts

Organizational Overview

EPACENTER is a vibrant hub for creativity and cultural engagement headquartered in East Palo Alto. We are dedicated to inspiring imagination and activating the creative potential of all who seek greater access to artistic opportunities in San Mateo County. EPACENTER unites individuals of every age through artistic expression, supports career pathways in creative fields, and celebrates the rich cultural heritage of our community.

EPACENTER presents a dynamic range of public programs, including captivating live performances, thought-provoking exhibitions and installations, stimulating lectures, curated film screenings, and spirited community events. Our comprehensive array of classes in digital, visual, and performing arts offers abundant opportunities for personal growth, skill development, and the discovery of lifelong passions. Additionally, fellowship and training programs open doors to rewarding high-wage careers within the creative industries.

Designed as an inviting and accessible 25,000-square-foot space, EPACENTER is a welcoming gathering spot where people of all abilities explore their talents, engage with inspiring ideas, and flourish creatively.

Position Overview

The Visual Arts instructor role at EPACENTER is a highly visible, involved role with measurable outcomes. Reporting to the Director of Visual Arts, instructors are expected to design curricula in alignment with youth development and holistic well-being.

The Visual Arts instructor teaches mixed-media, collage, sewing, fiber arts, sculpture, flower-making, etc. to children and youth, ages 3-18. Visual Arts Instructor creates a class syllabus, develops lesson plans, teaches an assigned class, manages the classroom, tracks attendance, and oversees the administration of class evaluations.

The EPACENTER studio model draws on a socially engaged, materials-based approach to producing art, treating public space, a wall, hallway, or classroom as a canvas for participatory, site‑specific storytelling.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 – 5 years teaching visual arts in a non-traditional learning environment for school-age children.
• Active pedagogical approach to education
• Deep experience in community-centric design, immersive exhibition design, environmental design
• Comfort working collaboratively and adapting to real-world constraints
• Openness to giving and receiving feedback
• Experience working with children and adults in an arts environment
• Exhibition history
• Experience in the planning and delivery of high-quality, discipline-specific instruction for youth in community arts programs
• Ability to collaborate and interact in a professional, diplomatic and clear manner with others, including young people, lead instructors, staff, and community partners
• Commitment to ongoing professional development both as an artist and as an arts educator
• Cultural competency and experience working effectively in communities of color
• Knowledge of youth development best practices and theory
• Passion for the arts with an understanding of how the arts and creativity can transform lives and contribute to community building and placemaking

Desired Qualifications

• Spanish speaking, or multilingual a plus
• Museum education experience
• Entrepreneurial mindset and solution-oriented approach
• Prior experience with a studio-based arts education environment
• Familiarity with sketching, illustration, digital software, basic fabrication tools

Physical Requirements

• Ability to alternate between sitting and standing throughout the workday.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 10 pounds frequently and up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Frequent use of hands for typing, writing, and handling materials.
• Ability to communicate effectively in person, by telephone, and by email.
• Ability to read printed materials and computer screens for extended periods.

Who Should Apply

This program is for artist educators who are expressly interested in working with young people and exploring how that informs their practice.