Painting Arts Instructor (Temporary)

The Educational Alliance•New York, NY

About The Position

Educational Alliance is seeking a temporary Painting Arts Instructor to provide high-quality painting instruction to students with a range of experience levels across Educational Alliance programs. Classes may take place at EA Art School, Weinberg Center for Balanced Living, or Co-op Village NORC, depending on program needs. The instructor will maintain continuity of existing classes during the regular instructor’s absence, providing individualized guidance and group instruction that support artistic development and foster a welcoming, inclusive, and creative learning environment. The assignment duration may change based on the regular instructor’s return and organizational needs. The instructor follows established course plans and learning goals where available, adapting instruction in coordination with Educational Alliance Program Directors. EA Art School courses typically run for 8–10 weeks. The role also involves preparing and maintaining the painting studio, supporting safe and sustainable use of art materials, communicating with students and colleagues, and assisting with studio operations as needed.

Requirements

At least two years of experience teaching painting to adults and/or children.
Strong knowledge of painting techniques, materials, and studio practices relevant to the courses taught.
Self-motivated, highly efficient, and able to problem-solve.
Proactive, hands-on approach and professional work ethic.
Ability to work autonomously while collaborating with faculty and staff.
Ability to work morning, evening, and weekend hours as the class schedule requires.
Team player with a passion for building relationships and supporting a diverse community of learners.

Nice To Haves

Active painting artist willing to share work and artistic process with students.
Demonstrated engagement with the broader New York City visual arts community.

Responsibilities

Demonstrate knowledge of painting fundamentals and techniques, including color theory, composition, value, form, brushwork, layering, and surface development.
Teach relevant methods in painting media offered by Educational Alliance, such as acrylic and/or oil, and support students’ observational, expressive, and conceptual approaches.
Communicate positively and professionally with Art School students, faculty, and staff.
Provide individualized and group instruction responsive to students’ interests, learning styles, and skill levels, using demonstrations, constructive feedback, and student-centered approaches.
Follow established course plans and learning goals where available, making instructional adjustments in coordination with Educational Alliance Program Directors.
Design or adapt lessons and projects as needed to support students during the coverage period.
Maintain continuity of existing painting classes during the regular instructor’s absence, including communicating class expectations, supporting student progress, and coordinating with the Art School Director about curriculum and instructional adjustments.
Help students use and care for painting materials and equipment appropriately.
Follow painting studio safety procedures, including appropriate handling, storage, ventilation, and disposal of art materials where applicable, and ensure students follow Art School policies and studio procedures.
Understand and teach sustainable artmaking practices, including thoughtful use of materials and minimizing negative impacts on people and the environment.
Maintain an organized, clean, and functional painting studio; prepare the space and materials for class; and provide status updates to the supervisor.
Complete basic tasks agreed upon by faculty or requested by the supervisor.
Meet one-on-one with the supervisor as needed.
Communicate effectively with students via email.
Occasionally assist with studio operations and maintenance beyond class preparation and cleanup.
Develop professional relationships with co-workers, students, and Art School guests.
Perform other duties as assigned.