What does an Art Instructor do?
Published 4 min read
An art instructor is a person who teaches people how to create works of art.
Art Instructor job duties include:
- Prepare lesson plans and deliver lectures to art students
- Evaluate student performance and provide feedback
- Select and order art supplies and materials
- Develop teaching methods to meet the needs of individual students
- Plan field trips to museums or galleries
- Create a positive learning environment in the classroom
- Encourage creativity and expression in students
- Provide guidance and support to students working on art projects
- Keep up with trends in the art world
- Attend professional development workshops or conferences
Art Instructor Job Requirements
An Art Instructor typically needs a minimum of a Bachelor's degree in Art, although some employers may prefer a Master's degree. Certification is available through the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards and the American Montessori Society. Many Art Instructors have several years of experience working as an artist before becoming an instructor.
Art Instructor Skills
- Patience
- Creativity
- Artistic ability
- Communication
- Organization
- Preparation
- Public speaking
- Research
- Writing
- Leadership
- Teaching
Related: Top Art Instructor Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become an Art Instructor
Assuming you would like tips on becoming an art instructor:
1. Research the field. There is no one “right” way to become an art instructor, so it is important to learn about the different paths available. Consider what type of instruction you are interested in teaching (e.g., painting, sculpture, photography, etc.), what age group you would like to teach, and whether you want to teach in a school, studio, or museum setting.
2. Consider your own qualifications. In order to teach art, you don’t necessarily need to have a degree in art education—although this can be helpful. Many instructors have degrees in fine arts or a related field, such as art history. It is also important to have a strong portfolio of your own work to show potential students and employers.
3. Get experience working with children or adults. If you want to teach kids, volunteer in a classroom or after-school program; if you want to teach adults, look for teaching opportunities at community colleges or adult education centers. This experience will not only give you a sense of whether teaching is right for you, but it will also help you develop your teaching skills.
4. Develop a teaching style that works for you. There is no “correct” way to teach art—it’s all about finding a style that suits your personality and teaching goals. Some instructors prefer a more hands-off approach, while others prefer to be more hands-on; some focus on technique while others emphasize creativity; some teach individually while others work in groups. The key is to find a method that works for both you and your students.
5. Market yourself as an instructor. Once you’ve developed your teaching style and built up a strong portfolio of work, it’s time to start marketing yourself as an instructor. Create a website or online portfolio showcasing your work and credentials; reach out to local schools, studios, and museums about teaching opportunities; and network with other instructors in your field.
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