Artist in Residence (AIR) Clay

The purpose of the AIR program is to provide a creative residential environment for emerging professional artists The Craft Centers mission is to offer the finest studio professional craft education through the BFA and BS degrees and workshop programs while providing a regional cultural resource for the surrounding community. INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPORT: In addition to the possible teaching opportunities through Tennessee Techs academic program residents will have the opportunity to teach outreach through the Appalachian Center for Craft for additional compensation. Additional teaching may include occasional teaching duties during faculty absence during the academic year. Residence in Craft Center housing is a required condition of studio residencies (no pets allowed). A single occupancy bedroom with private bath and cooking lounge facilities and common living spaces are shared with other residents. There are no completely private housing units available. Spouses partners and significant others are not allowed to live on campus; housing is offered only to resident artists. Individual private studio space and 24-hour studio access are provided. Ability to sell work in the Craft Center Gallery with a split in profit during the duration of the residency.

Oversight of general maintenance repair cleanup and condition of studio. During workshop programs the resident manages the studio coordinates the facility needs of the instructors and participants with the Program Manager assists with ordering tools and materials for the workshops and provides technical assistance. Consults with Marketing and Program Manager studio faculty Gallery Manager and workshop instructors throughout workshop planning. Substitute teaching during faculty absence. Assists instructor gives class demonstrations participate in class discussions and participate in mid-term and final group critiques in as requested by supervisor. Provide an example for students as an emerging professional artist by producing and exhibiting studio work of a high level of technical expertise and aesthetic merit. Participate in outreach and workshop programs as instructors or assistants.

Tennessee Tech is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer.

In exchange for housing and a private studio oversight of clay studio glaze pantry glaze lab and use of kilns ; equipment. Periodic inventory of glaze materials and other studio supplies. During the academic year (August- May) the resident will work 15 hours per week on studio maintenance mixing glazes firing kilns assisting students during class times and other studio tasks as needed. During the Craft Centers summer workshop season the resident manages the studio and ensures smooth operation. Summer hours are on a time bank system as the need varies from studio to studio depending on the workshop schedule. Hours will not exceed 180 hours (15 hours per week/12 weeks). Specifics of managing the studio during workshops will be discussed with the artist in residence in advance with both the supervising faculty member and the program manager. Residents will receive direction from the program manager regarding workshop support. During the workshops the resident may be able to take part in the workshop in their respective studio on a space available basis or pursue their own work while also being available for the visiting instructor.

15 hours per week. One-year appointment August 15 2026- August 10 2027. The resident may have the opportunity to extend their residency for a second year but must apply again to the open call competing against the applicant pool that year.

Applicants must apply online at: with the following:

• Cover letter addressing:
  • Why you would like to be a resident artist
  • What you hope to achieve artistically while in the residency program
  • How do you feel your skills will contribute to the academic program of Tennessee Tech and to the Appalachian Center for Craft
  • Please describe your experience and skills in a ceramics studio. (i.e. firing of kilns- soda wood gas raku. Mixing of glazes. Clay mixing)
• Resume.
• Portfolio (saved in PDF format) of 1-2 personal artworks.
• Contact information for three references. (References will be contacted by lead faculty).
• Unofficial transcripts. Official transcripts required upon hire.

Incomplete applications will not be considered. Questions Email Associate Professor Jessica Wilson at .

Salary:

A stipend of $6000 annually is provided which is paid in monthly increments by direct deposit. Level P1 Grade 7.

Benefits Information:

Benefits include the accumulation of annual and sick leave on a prorated basis equal to the percentage of employment and thirteen (13) pro-rated University holidays. Other benefits include pro-rated retirement optional 401k and educational benefits.

An MFA or BFA/BA/BS in ceramics or sculpture is required. Applicants that apply should have a genuine interest in teaching as the SAC&D often has a need for adjunct faculty to teach Introduction to Art (Art Appreciation) as well as other art foundation courses. Selection criteria include: the candidates potential artistic and professional growth within the residency technical skills in studio and equipment maintenance and potential for instructional support. A strong understanding and competency in clay materials operation of clay mixers and pugmills glaze mixing electric and gas kiln firing and basic equipment maintenance required.

An MFA is preferred. Applicants that apply should have a genuine interest in teaching as the SAC;D often has a need for adjunct faculty to teach Introduction to Art (Art Appreciation) as well as other art foundation courses. Additional basic knowledge of hand power tools and construction/framing is preferred.