"Assistant Professor - Painting and 2D Foundations"

Job Details

This position is full-time, 9-month, tenure-track, and benefits eligible beginning August 14, 2026. The assignment will include teaching in rotation and as needed all levels of Painting (introductory, advanced, senior projects, and graduate) in addition to 2D Foundations for students in a range of NASAD accredited programs. The successful candidate will also serve on MFA graduate committees and mentor graduate assistants who are teaching 2D Foundations. Other duties related to teaching responsibilities include co-managing the painting area, studios, equipment, and budget, and other courses may be assigned based on the interests and expertise of the candidate and needs of the School.

The successful candidate will be expected to maintain an active program of research/creative activity sufficient to meet the expectations of a Carnegie Research 1, land-grant university, including the expectation to pursue external grants to support research/creative activity related to their discipline.

Participation in School of Art & Design activities, recruitment and retention of students, and faculty governance is required. Active participation in professional organizations in the field is expected, and the successful candidate will participate in and contribute to the School, serve on committees, and engage in the university and professional communities.

DATE OF APPOINTMENT: August 14, 2026 (Classes begin August 18, 2026)

Qualifications:

Required Qualifications:

• MFA in studio art with an emphasis in painting
• Minimum 1-year teaching experience as instructor of record in a collegiate studio arts program
• A strong record of exhibitions in reputable venues
• A proven working knowledge of oil and acrylic mediums
• Written and oral communication skills consistent with and complementary to the expectations of a public research university

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated interest in alternative painting techniques
• Interest in sustainable painting practices, natural pigments, and textiles
• Experience in attracting and maintaining quality undergraduate and graduate students

The School of Art and Design seeks a candidate who will demonstrate exemplary communication skills, collegiality, and ability to contribute to the intellectual and cultural life of the University.

DEADLINE: Review of applications will begin immediately. The search will remain open until the position is filled.

APPLICATION: Interested candidates should apply online at https://careers.wvu.edu/career-opportunities. A complete application must include:

• A letter of application
• Curriculum vitae
• Artist Statement
• Teaching Philosophy and sample syllabus for a painting class
• 20 Digital images (in JPEG, PDF, or PowerPoint format only) of recent personal work
• 20 Digital images (in JPEG, PDF, or PowerPoint format only) of recent student work
• Names of 3-5 references who may be contacted (including names, mailing addresses, telephone numbers, email addresses, and relationship to the applicant).

THE SCHOOL OF ART AND DESIGN (https://creativeartsandmedia.wvu.edu/school-of-art-and-design): West Virginia University is the only state institution accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). The various degree programs offered by the School include: BA in Art History and Museum Professions, BA in Art Therapy, BA in Game Design & Interactive Media, BFA in Art & Design, BFA in Art Education with teacher certification, BS in Design Studies, BS in Fashion Design & Merchandising, BS Interior Architecture, MA in Art Education, MA in Game Design, and MFA in Art & Design.