Seeking Artist: Youth Engagement Teaching Artist

Commitment: Varies, appox. 2–8 hours weekly
Schedule: Evenings (Tuesday–Fridays); mornings + afternoons (Saturdays)
Compensation: Varies based on commitment level, contract position

The Union for Contemporary Art is committed to strengthening the creative culture of the Greater Omaha area by providing direct support to local artists and increasing the visibility of contemporary art forms in our community. In every endeavor, we strive to unite artists and the community to inspire positive social change in North Omaha. The organization was founded on the belief that the arts can be a vehicle for social justice and greater civic engagement; we strive to utilize the arts as a bridge to connect our diverse community in innovative and meaningful ways.

Overview

Teaching Artists are integral to the organization’s mission to provide direct support to local artists and to increase access to arts education for youth living in and around North Omaha. Teaching artists are locally-based creatives who can plan and implement sequential learning experiences and one-off workshops for youth (ages 3 and up) and their families during after-school hours, on weekends, or in conjunction with special events. Teaching Artists provide hands-on visual arts instruction while creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environment. A background check is required in advance. We are currently seeking Teaching Artists with proficiency in one or more of the following areas: ceramics, drama, public arts, eco arts, mindful movement, printmaking, drawing, painting, and mixed media.

Responsibilities

• In coordination with the Youth Studios Manager, develop and deliver age-appropriate and culturally- and community-responsive lesson plans
• Communicate necessary supplies and lead preparation of materials for each lesson
• Assist with setup and cleanup of the youth studios
• Submit notes on the teaching experience, including but not limited to observations on student performance, collaboration, and overall learning
• Participate in orientation, trainings, and program/project assessment
  

Requirements

• Demonstrated experience in one or more art disciplines

• Ability to teach art techniques in illuminating and engaging ways
• Enthusiasm for working with diverse populations (i.e. race, age, class, gender expression, sexual orientation, ethnicity, etc.)
• Skilled in creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for youth and their families
• Capable of performing in non-traditional classroom settings
• Possess strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with a proven ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities, plan ahead, anticipate and articulate program needs, and work independently while keeping open communication
• Ability to problem-solve and be flexible and imaginative in working with young people and responding to their needs

The Union is committed to creating an environment where youth can see themselves reflected in the arts and education; artists of color and artists with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

The Union for Contemporary Art is an equal opportunity employer. We do not to discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of age, race, religion, color, disabilities, gender, sexual orientation or national origin. Period.

The Union accepts applications from teaching artists on a rolling basis. Please be advised that due to limited staff capacity, we will only respond to applications we wish to advance.