Seeking Visual Teaching Artists – Supportive Arts Programming in Minnesota Correctional Facilities

Overview:

We are seeking passionate and skilled Visual Teaching Artists to join our team in facilitating supportive arts programming in three correctional facilities. This position involves working within the correctional facilities to facilitate visual arts workshops and programs aimed at rehabilitation, skill-building, and personal growth and wellness among incarcerated individuals. Visual Teaching Artists will play a crucial role in providing a supportive and creative environment that fosters self-expression, empowerment, and positive transformation through visual arts. The teaching artists will work closely with our Executive Director and wellness facilitators and other artists to develop, plan, and implement the programming. These are part-time contract positions and programming will likely begin in July. 

Responsibilities:

Curriculum Development: In collaboration with the Art from the Inside team, design and develop visual arts curriculum tailored to the unique needs and interests of incarcerated individuals. Co-develop lesson plans, projects, and activities that align with program goals and objectives.

Workshop Facilitation: Lead and co-facilitate engaging and interactive visual arts workshops within the prison facilities. Provide instruction, guidance, and feedback to participants as they explore various art mediums and techniques.

Individualized Support: Offer individualized support and mentorship to participants, assisting them in developing their artistic skills and fostering personal growth and self-confidence.

Program Coordination and Collaboration: Collaborate with Art from the Inside team members and correctional facility staff and program administrators to coordinate workshop schedules, resources, and logistics. Maintain organized records of participant attendance, progress, and artwork.

Community Engagement: Engage with the broader community to raise awareness of the program and its impact. Coordinate exhibitions, showcases, or other events to display participants' artwork and promote community involvement.

Reflections on Grand by Jen Marx

Qualifications:

·       Proven experience working as a visual arts educator or teaching artist, particularly in diverse or non-traditional settings.

·       Strong understanding of various art mediums, techniques, and principles of design.

·       Ability to effectively communicate and engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those who may have experienced trauma or incarceration.

·       Demonstrated commitment to restorative justice principles, social justice, and equity.

·       Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.

·       Flexibility, adaptability, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment.

·       Experience working within correctional facilities or with justice-involved populations is preferred.

·       Experience or appreciation for wellness practices welcome.

Must pass Department of Corrections background checks and meet any other requirements for working within state correctional facilities.

This position offers a unique opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of incarcerated individuals through the transformative power of visual arts. If you are passionate about arts education, social justice, and rehabilitation, we encourage you to apply and join us in this important work.

To apply: submit your interest, resume, and samples of your work to artfromtheinsidemn@gmail.com

We will invite potential candidates to interview in mid-May. 

Posted until filled.