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Artist In Residence Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Atascadero Unified

Artist In Residence

Atascadero, CA · On-site

$35/hr

Artist in Residence Fine Arts Academy Dates: 2026-2027 SCHOOL YEAR Salary: $35.00/hr 4 days a week / 4hrs per day Desirable Qualifications: • Facilitate a learning environment that encourages ...

AKOOL

Artist in Residence

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$149K - $179K/yr

We're looking for emerging creators, artists, filmmakers, designers, animators, and storytellers ... in person at our Palo Alto office at least 3 days per week. ----- APPLY HERE:

Colburn

Residential Academy Coordinator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$21 - $27/hr

... Arts Administration/Management is preferred but not required. Combined experience/education and music background may be substituted for minimum education. * 2 years or more experience in residence ...

Colburn

Residential Academy Coordinator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$21 - $27/hr

... Arts Administration/Management is preferred but not required. Combined experience/education and music background may be substituted for minimum education. * 2 years or more experience in residence ...

Saint Mary's College of California

Sergeant

Moraga, CA · On-site

$43K - $68K/yr

... rooted in the Catholic, Lasallian, and Liberal Arts traditions. Enrolling more than 3,000 ... Residence Life Services * Student Support: Maintain frequent contact with students, support ...

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All JobsArtist In Residence JobsArtist In Residence Jobs in California

Artist In Residence information

See California salary details

$30.1K

$127.8K

$150.5K

How much do artist in residence jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for artist in residence in California is $127,844.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $125,300.00 and $150,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an artist in residence?

An Artist In Residence is a professional artist who is invited by an organization, such as a university, museum, or community center, to work within their space for a set period of time. During the residency, the artist is usually provided with resources like studio space, materials, and sometimes a stipend, allowing them to focus on their creative work. The goal is often to create new art, engage with the local community, and sometimes teach or present their work through workshops or exhibitions. Each residency program has its own expectations and opportunities, making the experience unique for each artist.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an artist in residence?

To thrive as an Artist In Residence, you need a strong artistic portfolio, creative vision, and often a relevant degree or substantial experience in your chosen medium. Familiarity with studio equipment, digital design tools, or specific art practices is commonly required, and some programs may ask for experience with public engagement or teaching. Excellent communication, adaptability, and collaboration skills help artists work effectively within diverse communities and institutions. These abilities are crucial for making a meaningful impact, building professional relationships, and maximizing the opportunities provided by the residency.

How does collaboration typically work between an artist in residence and the host organization or community?

As an Artist In Residence, you will often engage in collaborative projects with the host organization's staff, local artists, or community members. This may include leading workshops, participating in public events, or creating site-specific works that involve input from others. The level of collaboration can vary, but clear communication and openness to feedback are key to successful partnerships. These interactions not only enrich your own practice but also help build a supportive creative environment and foster lasting relationships.

What is the difference between Artist In Residence vs Art Educator?

AspectArtist In ResidenceArt Educator
Required CredentialsPortfolio, artistic experience, sometimes a degreeTeaching certification, degree in art education or related field
Work EnvironmentArt studios, galleries, museums, community spacesSchools, community centers, museums, educational institutions
Employer & IndustryArts organizations, cultural institutions, universitiesEducational institutions, nonprofit organizations, arts programs

While both roles involve engaging with art, an Artist In Residence focuses on creating and showcasing art within a specific environment, often with a temporary or project-based scope. An Art Educator primarily teaches art skills and concepts to students or community members. The roles overlap in artistic credentials and work environments but differ in their primary objectives and employer settings.

How do you become an artist in residence?

To become an artist in residence, individuals typically need a strong portfolio of work, relevant artistic skills, and experience in their chosen medium. Applicants often submit a proposal or application demonstrating their project ideas and may need to meet specific criteria set by the hosting organization, such as educational background or prior exhibitions. Residency programs may also require interviews or references and sometimes provide stipends or studio space during the residency period.

What cities in California are hiring for Artist In Residence jobs?

Cities in California with the most Artist In Residence job openings:

Artist In Residence jobs near you
Infographic showing various Artist In Residence job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $127,844 per year, or $61.5 per hour.

Artist-in-Residence

Palo Alto Unified School District

Palo Alto, CA

$46.09/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Artist-in-Residence at Palo Alto Unified School District Share on X Print Application Deadline Until Filled Date Posted 8/13/2026 Contact Marilyn Munoz Number of Openings 1 Salary Single Rate $46.09 Per Hour Length of Work Year Hourly as needed Employment Type Part Time Location Palo Alto Unified School District Department Visual and Performing Arts Department Benefits N/A Job Summary Job Summary QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE Bachelor's degree in related arts field or equivalent professional experience preferred; Practicing artist with a strong, demonstrable portfolio; Experience working with secondary students (grades 6-12) preferred; Background in one or more of the following: Visual Art, Instrumental Music, Choral Music, Dance or Theatre. OVERVIEW: Palo Alto Unified School District (PAUSD) is seeking a dynamic and adaptable Artist-in-Residence to collaborate with students and faculty in secondary Visual and Performing Arts classrooms. The duration of each residency will vary depending on the scope and objectives of the project

The selected artist will engage students in creative processes, foster artistic expression, and help integrate the arts into the broader educational experience. ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE REQUIREMENTS: Proven experience as a professional artist with a strong portfolio; Demonstrated ability to teach and engage students in artistic practices; Strong communication and interpersonal skills; Flexibility to adapt to varying durations and scopes of residency. Commitments Include: Teaching time based on project scope; Participation in relevant school or district art events, exhibitions, and/or performances; See more in the job description attached below.

View Job Description Requirements / Qualifications For more information on Requirements/Qualifications, please contact the employer. Comments and Other Information For more information on Comments and Other Information, please contact the employer. Links Related To This Job Palo Alto Unified School District PAUSD Salary Schedule Benefits Contribution Chart View Other Job Desc.

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