The Kansas City Art Institute (KCAI) seeks a collaborative and visionary colleague for a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Ceramics appointment, beginning August 2026. The successful candidate will join a department that values collaboration, material exploration, and conceptual rigor, contributing to an inclusive studio culture that prepares students for meaningful creative lives and professional practice.
Persons filling this position will be expected to engage in research and creative activity, provide service to the department and the Institute, and build knowledge, commitment, and motivation in undergraduate sophomores through seniors and non-majors. Teaching responsibilities span a range of skill levels and conceptual frameworks, with opportunities for co-teaching and cross-disciplinary engagement. Faculty in the department are collaboratively reimagining curricula through co-teaching models and cross-disciplinary modes of learning that foster vibrant studio culture, optimize learning spaces, and strengthen student engagement with ceramics as it relates to other disciplines and the broader art and design context.
We invite applications from artist-educators who are committed to contemporary conceptual and technical approaches within the field of ceramics while honoring the medium’s rich history. The ideal candidate’s research and expertise would fall within the realm of sculpture as a part of ceramic practice, which may include object-making, tile, figurative work, installation, social practice, digital or new media, or time-based and performance approaches. A strong foundation in building methods—including moldmaking, a variety of handbuilding techniques, and diverse surface processes—is required.
Essential Functional Responsibilities:
Faculty at KCAI engage in teaching, creative practice, and service to both the department and the college community. The successful candidate will:
Teach undergraduate courses across all levels of the ceramics curriculum (3/3 teaching load).
Develop and deliver coursework integrating conceptual, technical, and professional practice components.
Mentor students toward academic and professional success.
Maintain an active, creative, or research practice with professional visibility.
Participate in collaborative departmental initiatives, including co-teaching and interdisciplinary projects.
Contribute to departmental operations such as studio management, safety, and resource development.
Provide service to the College through Faculty Assembly participation, recruitment efforts, and other service activities.
Knowledge, Skills, and Qualifications
Deep engagement in a professional artistic practice centered in ceramic media.
Demonstrated ability to translate conceptual and technical knowledge into effective studio instruction.
Strong understanding of how historical and contemporary contexts inform current practice and pedagogy in ceramics.
Facility with sculptural and fabrication processes, including mold making, slip casting, and material experimentation.
Working knowledge of kiln technologies, firing processes, and studio safety protocols.
Interest in integrating digital tools and emerging technologies (e.g., 3D modeling, digital fabrication) into creative and instructional practice.
Capacity to mentor students in developing a sustainable, professional practice within the field of art and design.
Clear and effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
Collaborative approach to teaching, learning, and departmental service that supports an inclusive and engaged studio culture.
Strong organizational and studio management abilities.
Required Experience/Education
MFA in Ceramics or a closely related field.
Evidence of professional achievement and ongoing creative research in ceramics.
Demonstrated record of college-level teaching effectiveness.
Proficiency with ceramic processes, including moldmaking, handbuilding, slip casting, glazing, and operation of electric and gas kilns.
Knowledge of historical and contemporary ceramics within art and design contexts.
Proven ability to work collaboratively with faculty, staff, and students in a collegial and inclusive environment.
Commitment to equitable, student-centered, and experiential learning practices.
Preferred Experience/Education:
Record of three or more years of exhibitions, publications, or presentations at regional, national, or international levels.
Experience integrating digital tools, 3D modeling, or other emerging technologies into studio practice.
Experience in studio management, safety oversight, or curriculum development.
Engagement with interdisciplinary or community-based practices.
Application Materials
Cover letter
CV
Artist Statement
Teaching Philosophy
Portfolio
Student Images (5 -20 supervised student work)
Application materials (PDF Preferred) should be submitted through the portal at https://kcai.edu/employment/
Statement
Driven by exploration, curiosity, and passion, it is Kansas City Art Institute’s mission to educate artists and designers while honoring the distinct journeys of students. We create a community that equips students to become leaders who leverage the creative process to transform the future. Our excellence is integrated in our community, rich with varied experiences and perspectives from faculty, staff, students, and alumni. We invest in continuous growth by cultivating a culture of care and belonging—a climate where respectful dialogue thrives and every person is seen, heard, and valued. When individuals feel supported and connected, they achieve their full potential and accomplish remarkable things.
KCAI is committed to attracting, retaining, developing, and promoting the most qualified candidates for employment without regard to any characteristic prohibited by federal, state, or local law. KCAI provides reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in the job application process. If you have difficulty using our online system and require accommodation due to a disability, contact the Human Resources Department about your interest in employment. Any questions or concerns can be directed to KCAI’s Human Resource Administrator at hr@kcai.edu.
Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S.
We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.
Submitted by Paul Donnelly at Kansas City Art Institute. For questions, contact pdonnelly@kcai.edu
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