Assistant Professor - Visual Arts

Position Overview

The School of Art and Design within the College of Entertainment and the Arts (CEA) at Lipscomb University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in the Visual Arts Department, starting in August 2025. We seek a dynamic, innovative, and dedicated educator with a passion for both teaching and advancing the discipline. The ideal candidate will contribute to a collaborative academic environment by teaching a diverse range of studio art courses, art history, and art theory, while fostering interdisciplinary engagement and industry partnerships. This position offers an exciting opportunity to shape the future of our Visual Arts program through curriculum development, mentoring, and creative research.

Key Responsibilities

Teaching & Curriculum Development

• Teach undergraduate courses spanning foundational to advanced levels in studio art and art theory.
• Design, implement, and continually improve a rigorous studio art curriculum that fosters creativity, technical skill, and critical thinking.
• Advise and mentor students on academic and professional development, fostering their growth as artists and scholars.
• Cultivate a positive and supportive classroom environment that encourages experimentation, collaboration, and interdisciplinary exploration.

Collaboration & Community Engagement

• Work collaboratively with faculty across the College of Entertainment and the Arts to integrate visual arts into cross-disciplinary initiatives and projects.
• Collaborate with the recruitment office to enhance student outreach, including conducting tours, hosting orientations, and participating in recruitment events.
• Supervise and guide student-led initiatives, including the department's off-campus and in-house galleries, providing students with real-world exhibition experience.
• Participate in the strategic planning and evolution of the Visual Arts degree programs, aligning them with evolving industry trends and academic standards.

Professional Development & Industry Engagement

• Actively pursue external funding opportunities, including grants and fellowships, to support personal research, student projects, and departmental initiatives.
• Build and maintain strong partnerships with the art industry, galleries, and other professional organizations to enhance students' career readiness and exposure.
• Contribute to the broader academic community through participation in departmental, school, and university committees.

Qualifications

• A Master's degree in Studio Art, Art History, or a related field (PhD preferred).
• A strong portfolio demonstrating significant professional practice, creative research, and academic expertise in studio art.
• A demonstrated commitment to inclusive, accessible, and innovative teaching methodologies.
• Previous teaching experience is preferred, but not required.

Preferred Skills & Expertise

• Ability to teach across diverse media and disciplines, including drawing, sculpture, printmaking, new media, photography, and other studio-based arts.
• Proficiency in current and emerging digital tools and technologies for the visual arts.
• Experience with comprehensive art-making processes, including concept development, research, and professional practice.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills with the ability to collaborate effectively within a team environment.

About Lipscomb University

Lipscomb University offers a vibrant, faith-based academic community that values creativity, innovation, and academic excellence. The School of Art and Design is committed to providing students with a robust, hands-on education that prepares them for success in a variety of creative industries. Join us in shaping the next generation of artists in an environment that encourages artistic expression, interdisciplinary learning, and professional growth. Key highlights include:

• Enrolling over 4,600 students.
• Offering more than 100 majors across eight bachelor's degrees, 24 master's degrees in 70 fields, four education specialist degrees, and three doctoral programs.
• Students contribute an average of 60,000 hours of service annually.
• Recognized as a national university by U.S. News & World Report and categorized as a doctoral university by the Carnegie Foundation.

Lipscomb University is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community.

Application Instructions

Interested applicants should submit the following materials:

• A cover letter detailing your teaching philosophy, professional practice, and vision for the future of visual arts education.
• A curriculum vitae (CV).
• An online portfolio showcasing personal artwork and/or creative research.
• Contact information for three professional references.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.