Assistant Professor of Art, General Faculty (Drawing / Foundations)

The Studio Art Program at the University of Virginia Department of Art invites applications from artists whose creative work focuses on drawing or related disciplines for an appointment as Assistant Professor on the academic general faculty (teaching) track.

Successful candidates will have experience teaching undergraduate students in a broad range of drawing and foundational practices. Courses will be determined by departmental need, including drawing, foundations, painting, and general education. Introduction to Drawing covers the craft and principles of drawing, ranging from observational to abstraction. Introduction to Studio Art provides an overview of the possibilities of studio art and includes two and three-dimensional practices, conceptual projects, and digital skills.

Candidates will also teach first-year-student seminars in UVA’s Engagements Program as part of their courseload. The Engagements are a defining part of the College of Arts & Sciences’ general education curriculum, offering first-year students an introduction to essential ways of thinking that span the arts, sciences, and humanities. Faculty in these hybrid roles will be anchored in a home department while also serving as College Fellows, joining a cross‑disciplinary cohort responsible for shaping the first‑year academic experience through the Engagements Program. You can read more about the Engagement’s Program here: https://gened.as.virginia.edu/engagements

This is a three-year, tenure-ineligible teaching appointment with the possibility but not the guarantee of renewal. The anticipated start date for the position is August 10, 2026. The teaching load is three courses per semester. Duties include departmental service. Professional development funding is available to general faculty members, although research leave is not.

Qualifications

Candidates must hold a relevant terminal degree (MFA) by the beginning of the appointment. Strongest consideration will be given to candidates with a range of teaching experiences at the undergraduate level. The ideal candidate will bring a unique perspective, and/or set of experiences that expand the conversations and practices in the medium and the field. We seek candidates with the ability to teach and mentor students from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences.

Application Instructions

Visit https://apply.interfolio.com/182235 to apply. Review of applications begins on April 8, 2026 and will continue until the position is filled.

Required documents:

1. A cover letter addressing the candidate’s interest in the position and describing current creative practice and teaching
2. A one page statement of teaching philosophy
3. Current curriculum vitae
4. A link to an online portfolio. 10 images of personal creative work and 10 images of student work. Video work maximum 15 minutes. Attach to Portfolio/Creative Work.
5. Contact information for three references

Questions about this position should be directed to Amy Chan, chair of the search committee, abc4n@virginia.edu. The university will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.

The University of Virginia offers confidential Dual Career Services to partners of incoming faculty candidates. To learn more, please visit dualcareer.virginia.edu