Watercolor Painting Studio Instructor

CalArts Extended Studies is a self-supporting unit within California Institute of the Arts, providing educational opportunities for creative professionals and life-long learners. CalArts Extended Studies non-degree credit courses reflect the artistic and academic integrity of the degree curriculum at CalArts. Funding is generated through fees collected from a diverse and changing student population. Part-time instructor positions are on a course by course contracted basis. The contract is for the duration of the set development and delivery periods only and is subject to sufficient enrollment.

Course Title: Watercolor Painting Studio
Course Dates: Feb 25-April 1, 2026, 6:30-8:30 pm

In this introductory course you will explore the medium of watercolor, experiment with a variety of techniques, and learn new painting skills. Topics include color mixing and theory, brushwork, and wash techniques. Studio work will be supported by demonstrations, presentations, and critiques.

During this course of study students will:

• learn traditional approaches to watercolor painting
• experiment with a range of nontraditional contemporary watercolor techniques
• apply basic qualities of watercolor paint, including transparency, and permanence
• explore the relationships between pigment, water and surface
• learn about the historic and contemporary use of watercolor by artists from around the world
• gain a deeper understanding of watercolor painting as a form of expression

• Develop course outline in consultation with Extended Studies. 
• Prepare and deliver course materials and learning assessments in the assigned format
• Utilize the Canvas Learning Management System as the course support platform
• Communicate teaching objectives and specific learning outcomes to students
• Evaluate student achievement of specific learning outcomes, and assign grades (pass/fail)
• Post final student grades to the Extended Studies system by set deadlines
• Respond to student questions and learning needs in a timely manner
• Stay current regarding the professional body of knowledge in the field of practice
• Participate in required orientations and complete mandatory training programs
• Complete required administrative tasks in a timely manner including
• Employ culturally competent and inclusive teaching methodologies in the classroom 

• a Masters of Fine Arts degree or comparable professional experience
• a professional visual art practice
• expertise in watercolor painting
• experience with curriculum development and delivery for adult learners
• excellent interpersonal and presentation, written, and communication skills

To apply, please go to https://apply.interfolio.com/178163 and submit a:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Cover Letter
• A link to artist website or online portfolio
• List of 3 references (contact information only)

Review of applications begins on January 9 at 4:00pm (Pacific Time). Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee. 

Any candidate that is offered employment with CalArts must complete the Form I-9 in accordance with the law. On the form, an employee must attest to their employment authorization. The employee must also present their employer with acceptable documents as evidence of identity and employment authorization. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. 

Instructors will be required to complete a criminal background check.

The rate of pay is $152.10 per hour for 12 hours of course delivery.

California Institute of the Arts understands that valuing diverse creative practices and forms of knowledge are essential to and enrich the institution’s core mission. As an employer committed to employment equity, we encourage applications from members of equity-seeking communities including women, racialized and Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, and persons of all sexual orientations and gender identities/expressions. 

California Institute of the Arts shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities, and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Moreover, these regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.