Artist in Residence (AIR) - Fibers Job at Tennessee Tech in Cookeville

Artist in Residence (AIR) - Fibers

Please read the job description carefully before applying. The essential functions are the fundamental job duties that an employee must be able to perform, with or without a reasonable accommodation. Additional job duties may be assigned as needed.

Applicants who do not fully meet the minimum qualifications or who do not fully complete the application as instructed will not be considered. Applicants are responsible for demonstrating that they possess the qualifications advertised for the position. Meeting the minimum qualifications does not assure applicants of an interview.

Position Information

Position Number : 684030

Working Title : Artist in Residence (AIR) - Fibers

Job Title : Artist in Residence

Job Type : Part-Time

Department : Craft Center

Job Purpose : The Appalachian Center for Craft is seeking an Artist in Residence (AIR) of exceptional talent to provide support in the fibers studio and program. The purpose of the AIR program is to provide a creative, residential environment for emerging professional artists. The Craft Center’s mission is to offer the finest studio professional craft education through the BFA and BS degrees and workshop programs, while providing a regional cultural resource for the surrounding community.

Essential Functions : In exchange for housing and a private studio, the AIR will work 15 hours per week overseeing studio upkeep and providing instructional support. Studio duties include maintenance and repair of equipment such as looms, light table, fabric steamer, paper pulp beater; inventory of supplies; coordinating studio clean ups; and general oversight of organization and safety in the studio. Digital design skills are also helpful. The resident must produce a significant body of studio work while showing a high level of technical expertise and aesthetic merit. In consultation with the supervising faculty member, expectations of the residence’s studio work will be reviewed after arrival. During the Craft Center’s summer workshop season, the AIR manages the studio for the workshops and ensures its smooth operation under supervision of the program manager.

INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPORT : In addition to the possible teaching opportunities through Tennessee Tech’s academic program, residents will have the opportunity to teach outreach through the Appalachian Center for Craft for additional compensation. Additional teaching may include occasional teaching duties during faculty absence during the academic year.

Minimum Qualifications : Applicants must hold a minimum of a BFA / BA / BS degree or equivalent. Applicants that apply should have a genuine interest in teaching, as the SAC &D often has need for adjunct faculty to teach Introduction to Art (Art Appreciation) as well as other art foundations courses. General familiarity with fibers processes, materials, chemicals, and a strong knowledge in at least one area of the following is preferred : weaving, surface design, papermaking and / or 3D Structures. Selection will consider the candidate’s potential artistic and professional growth within the residency, technical skills in studio and equipment maintenance, and potential for instructional support.

Preferred Qualifications : MFA or equivalent professional experience. Strong competency with fibers processes, materials, chemicals and strong knowledge of weaving and / or surface design, paper, and bookmaking.

Work Hours : 15 hours a week. One-year appointment, August 15, 2025 – August 10, 2026. The resident may have the opportunity to extend their residency for a second year, but must apply again to the open call, competing against the applicant pool that year.

Compensation and Benefits : Salary : A stipend of $6,000 annually is provided, which is paid in monthly increments by direct deposit. Benefits include the accumulation of annual and sick leave on a prorated basis equal to the percentage of employment, and thirteen (13) pro-rated University holidays. Other benefits include pro-rated retirement, optional 401k, and educational benefits.

Application Process

Applicants must apply online at : with the following materials :

• Cover letter addressing :
• Why would you like to be a resident artist?
• What you hope to achieve artistically while in the residency program?
• How do you feel your skills will contribute to the academic program of Tennessee Tech and to the Appalachian Center for Craft?
• Please describe your experience and skills in a fibers studio (e.g., dying, weaving, paper-making, etc).
• Resume
• Portfolio (saved in PDF format) of 10-20 personal artworks
• Contact information for three references (References will be contacted by lead faculty)
• Unofficial transcripts (Official transcripts required upon hire)

Applications without all required materials will not be considered. Questions? Email Associate Professor Rena Wood at rwood@tntech.edu .

Posting Details

Posting Date : 01 / 24 / 2025

Screening Date : 03 / 15 / 2025

Open Until Filled : Yes

J-18808-Ljbffr

Salary : $6,000