Visual Art Studio Artist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

About Artists First

Artists First is an inclusive, community-based art studio where individuals of all abilities,

backgrounds, and experiences can explore creativity, build confidence, develop skills,

and connect with their community. We believe in the power of art to promote self-

expression, independence, community, and dignity.

Position Overview

Artists First is seeking a creative, dependable, and compassionate Contract Art

Facilitator to support artists in our open studio and community-based programs.

The Contract Art Facilitator will provide art facilitation and creative support while

encouraging artists to develop their own artistic voice and work independently. This

position is ideal for a working artist, teaching artist, art educator, or creative professional

who enjoys working with a diverse community.

This is an independent contractor position. The contractor will provide services to

Artists First according to an agreed-upon schedule and scope of work.

Responsibilities

• Facilitate art-making and creative exploration in a welcoming studio environment.
• Support artists working in a variety of mediums, including painting, drawing, mixed media, ceramics, fiber arts, and other visual arts.
• Encourage artists to develop their own ideas, techniques, and artistic styles.
• Provide appropriate assistance while promoting independence and choice.
• Adapt creative activities and techniques to accommodate different abilities, interests, and learning styles.
• Support artists in developing creative, communication, social, and vocational skills.
• Help prepare art materials and maintain an organized, safe, and accessible studio.
• Assist with workshops, exhibitions, community events, and special projects as requested.
• Provide basic documentation regarding participation, artwork, and program activities.
• Communicate professionally with Artists First staff, artists, families, volunteers,
• and community partners.
• Follow Artists First policies, procedures, safety expectations, and confidentiality requirements.
• Participate in orientation or training required for the contracted services.

Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience or training in visual arts or a related creative field.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work respectfully with individuals with diverse abilities and backgrounds.
• Reliable, patient, flexible, and comfortable working in a creative and community-based environment.
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision.
• Strong understanding of professional boundaries and confidentiality.

Preferred:

• Experience as a teaching artist, art instructor, studio artist, or community arts facilitator.
• Experience working with individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
• Experience with multiple visual art mediums.
• Experience supporting artists with exhibitions, portfolios, commissions, or creative careers.
• Degree or coursework in art, art education, special education, social work, recreation, or a related field.

Our Approach

Artists First uses a person-centered, social-model approach. The Art Facilitator

should understand that the role is not to tell artists what to create, but to provide the

environment, materials, encouragement, and support they need to succeed.

We are looking for someone who:

• Believes everyone is an artist.
• Encourages rather than directs.
• Knows when to step in and when to step back.
• Values individual choice and self-expression.
• Is comfortable supporting people with different abilities and communication styles.
• Understands art as a pathway to confidence, connection, independence, and dignity.

Contract Details

• Position: Contract Art Facilitator
• Organization: Artists First
• Location: Maplewood, Missouri
• Employment Classification: Independent Contractor
• Duration: Immediate need for 4-8 weeks (possibility of long-term employment thereafter).
• Compensation: $20 per hour / per contract term

The contractor will be responsible for complying with all applicable requirements

associated with independent contractor status, including applicable tax obligations. This

position does not include employee benefits.

How to Apply

Please submit:

• Resume or artist CV
• Brief statement of interest
• Examples of artwork or portfolio, if applicable
• Two professional references
• Send application materials to leticia@artistsfirststl.org with the subject line “Contract Art Facilitator.”

Artists First is committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive environment where every individual has the opportunity to create, connect, and thrive.