Position for an Assistant/Associate Professor, Jewelry + Metalsmithing at Rhode Island School of Design

Rhode Island School of Design recognizes diversity and inclusivity as fundamental to its learning community and integral to an art and design education. We welcome candidates whose experience in teaching, scholarship, professional practice, or service has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to excellence.
 
Close connections to the professional world are maintained through internships, seminars, speakers and interactions with visiting artists and critics. Collaborative projects with artists, faculty and students from other RISD departments, the RISD museum, community, and the jewelry industry enrich students’ educational experience. Candidates must demonstrate the capacity and interest to work across these areas in partnership with our diverse departmental faculty and the school at large.
 
The Jewelry + Metalsmithing program, established in 1879, instructs students in the practice of traditional techniques as well as the conceptual and methodological development of contemporary modes of practice. The department has approximately 40 undergraduate and 12 graduate students, offering a two-year MFA degree, a four-year BFA degree, and a one-year post-baccalaureate. The curriculum hones artistic identity through visual, written and material research built upon a foundation of strong technical skills, and emphasizes a thorough understanding and integration of process/technique, material exploration, and conceptual development. Unique to the program, a diverse and rotating group of 15 faculty supports the development of students as artists and designers who energize the field through personal vision and understanding of the larger artistic, cultural and social contexts of the discipline.
 
Through a rigorous program of study, students learn to think critically, master the varied technical processes inherent to creating work, and develop a true understanding of both traditional goldsmithing and contemporary jewelry. Students are guided by a distinctive faculty with a wide spectrum of skills, philosophies and professional experiences, as well as by an inspiring international roster of visiting artists. Our goal is that students develop the confidence, resourcefulness, and commitment necessary to establish a self-reflective practice, creating work that is personally expressive and responsive to the changing values of our world. As a professional jewelry and metalsmithing department within an art and design school, our focus is on the growth of the student as a creative individual and as an innovator in our field.
 
Qualifications:
The department seeks candidates with a deep understanding and skill set in both traditional and contemporary jewelry and metalsmithing practices. An active studio practice complemented by a strong critical voices and knowledgeable perspective of contemporary dialogue is essential to this core faculty position.
 
While an MFA is expected, candidates whose professional experience and substantial record of achievement in art and/or design fields in combination with a bachelor’s degree may be considered. A minimum of 3 years teaching experience at the university or college level is preferred. Candidates should demonstrate expertise in their field and personal work that exhibits a high level of proficiency, a dedication to a high standard of academic pedagogy and commitment to the ongoing evolution of the contemporary jewelry field. The ideal candidate will be capable of teaching students in all studio levels across the department from sophomore to graduate, with a specialized interest in departmental seminars. The candidate should have a solid foundation in art and design concepts, demonstrate a range of advanced jewelry and metalsmithing skills, evidence a capacity for critical thinking and discourse, and a knowledge of the history of the discipline as well as current contemporary issues/theories. Central to the hire, candidates must demonstrate the ability to effectively manage administrative responsibilities and the capacity to step into departmental leadership positions.
 
Review of applications begins immediately, and all completed applications received by January 8, 2018 are assured full consideration.
 
Rhode Island School of Design is an undergraduate and graduate college of art and design with approximately 2,400 graduate and undergraduate students. RISD has a critical review process, which is similar to the tenure process and supports faculty professional practice with sabbaticals, pre­critical review leave, conference funds, and professional development grants. The school is further distinguished by the RISD community that extends beyond our studios and offers students a uniquely well-rounded artistic experience. Jewelry + Metalsmithing students have access to exceptional resources including the world-class RISD Museum of Art collection, our magnificent contemporary library of art and design, our Edna Lawrence Nature Lab, and ongoing collaboration with our renowned Liberal Arts program as well as our neighbor Brown University. RISD’s high standards of excellence in 19 major disciplines, as well as the caliber of students, faculty, facilities, and resources, generate a fertile setting for creative practice.




RISD is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, or any other protected characteristic as established by law.