SEEKING PART TIME ARTIST MENTORS!
ArtWorking is a Madison based non-profit art studio and entrepreneurship program for adults with disabilities. We are currently seeking part time Artist Mentors. Artist Mentors work at AW’s dedicated studio space, supporting artists and small business owners with disabilities. The studio is open Monday-Friday, 8:30-4:30pm, and work shifts take place during these times. Additional hours may be available for a variety of events, exhibitions, and sales throughout the year.
ABOUT US
ArtWorking is a nonprofit program supporting artists and entrepreneurs with intellectual and developmental disabilities,. AW currently has about 40 people on its roster of Resident Artists, most of whom have started their own small businesses. In addition to our commitment to providing person-centered support, AW is proud of its commitment to artistic excellence, as Resident Artists successfully compete for opportunities to show and sell their work locally, regionally, and nationally. AW maintains a beautiful 6000 square foot studio on the far East side of Madison, which features studio space, printmaking resources, and a newly redesigned retail storefront.
ABOUT THE WORK
Artist Mentors provide direct support to artists with disabilities, working alongside Resident Artists to help facilitate their artistic and professional goals, while providing support with general daily routines.
Artist Mentors are expected to share knowledge, techniques, and practical advice in the visual arts. Drawing, illustration, acrylic painting, and watercolor painting occur on a daily basis. Prepping art materials and substrates, providing live art demonstrations, and offering visual art guidance is a large part of the Artist Mentor position. Being able to help foster and promote the personal vision of another artist is essential.
Artist Mentors also frequently use adaptive strategies to help with art-making. This may be using color charts, choice cards, or adaptive communication software to aid in communication between Mentors and Resident Artists.
At the end of the day though, our work is about people. Building relationships with artists and helping them to minimize the barriers to their professional goals is the bread and butter of what we do. Sometimes this means troubleshooting to help someone communicate their needs and wishes more effectively. Other times it means assisting someone in taking ownership of their process to insure that their creative vision is uniquely their own. Sometimes it is just helping someone to get a drink of water and remember to take a break. Whether mundane or sublime, our Artist Mentors work to provide whatever support is needed in the moment.
ABOUT YOU
You will need at least some personal or professional experience with people with disabilities to do this job well. A passion for creating and making, working with your hands, and enjoying the process are essential. Having good interpersonal skills, active listening skills, flexibility, creativity, and patience are needed. All in all, we’re looking for professional, cheerful, and enthusiastic individuals who can be mindful, attentive, and aware. Right now, we especially need people with ceramics or printmaking experience.
Requirements:
Practical or formal training/experience in studio arts
Practical experience working and/or living with people with disabilities.
Ability to pass a criminal background check
Vaccinated for Covid 19 and able to wear a mask while working
Preferred:
Experience in ceramics
Experience in printmaking practices, with an emphasis on screen printing
Experience with digital image manipulation
Experience providing personal cares to individuals
Experience working with people on the autism spectrum
Experience working with adaptive communication
Hourly compensation for the position begins at $15 an hour DOE, and includes 4 weeks of accrued paid time off (prorated) in your first year. Looking for staff to work 12-24 hours/week, Monday-Friday, between 8:30am and 4:30pm.
If interested in applying, please submit the following:
A one page cover letter describing your qualifications and interests
Current resume
3-8 images of your artwork
Applications can be emailed to info@artworking.org with “Artist Mentor” in the subject line. Applications can also be mailed/delivered to:
ArtWorking
1966 S Stoughton Rd.
Madison, WI 53716
For best consideration, please apply by November 15th.
