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Visual Arts Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Visual Arts Instructor

East Palo Alto, CA

$57K - $73K/yr

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 ...

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 ...

Visual Arts Instructor

East Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$57K - $73K/yr

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 ...

Visual Arts Instructor Location: 200 W 167th St, Bronx, New York 10452 Reports to: Program Director About Us: The Women's Housing and Economic Development Corporation (WHEDco) is a community ...

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Visual Arts Instructor information

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$19K

$61.4K

$130K

How much do visual arts instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for visual arts instructor in the United States is $61,375.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,000.00 and $62,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a visual arts instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Visual Arts Instructor, you need a solid background in art theory, studio techniques, and teaching methods, often supported by a degree in fine arts or art education. Familiarity with digital design tools, classroom management software, and traditional art materials is typically required. Strong communication, creativity, and adaptability help instructors engage diverse learners and foster a positive classroom environment. These skills and qualities are crucial for inspiring students, effectively delivering instruction, and supporting artistic growth.

What are some common challenges visual arts instructors face when engaging diverse student groups, and how can they address them?

Visual Arts Instructors often work with students who have varying skill levels, backgrounds, and learning styles. A common challenge is ensuring that lessons remain accessible and inspiring for everyone, from beginners to advanced students. Instructors can address this by differentiating instruction, offering individualized feedback, and incorporating a variety of materials and techniques to keep students engaged. Building a supportive classroom environment and encouraging peer collaboration also help foster creativity and inclusivity.

What is the difference between Visual Arts Instructor vs Art Teacher?

AspectVisual Arts InstructorArt Teacher
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in art or education, sometimes a teaching certificationUsually requires a bachelor's degree in art or education, often with state certification
Work EnvironmentArt studios, community centers, schools, collegesPublic and private schools, educational institutions
Employer & IndustryArt schools, community programs, educational institutionsPublic/private schools, school districts
Search & Comparison IntentPeople comparing roles in art education, community art programsPeople seeking traditional school-based art teaching positions

Both Visual Arts Instructors and Art Teachers work in educational settings and require similar credentials. However, Visual Arts Instructors often focus on community programs or specialized art studios, while Art Teachers are primarily employed in K-12 schools. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find roles aligned with their qualifications and career goals.

Are art teachers in high demand?

Art teachers, including visual arts instructors, are generally in steady demand in educational institutions, especially those with strong arts programs. Employment opportunities depend on school budgets, regional demand for arts education, and certification requirements, with many positions requiring a bachelor's degree and teaching credentials.

What is a visual arts instructor?

A visual arts instructor teaches students techniques and concepts in art forms such as drawing, painting, sculpture, and digital media. They often work in schools, community centers, or art studios, and may hold certifications or degrees in art education or related fields. Their role includes developing lesson plans, providing feedback, and fostering creativity among learners.

What cities are hiring for Visual Arts Instructor jobs?

Cities with the most Visual Arts Instructor job openings:

What states have the most Visual Arts Instructor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Visual Arts Instructor jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Visual Arts Instructor jobs?

For Visual Arts Instructor jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Visual Arts Instructor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,375 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Visual Arts Instructor

East Palo Alto, CA

$57K - $73K/yr

Part-time

Posted 23 days ago


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.