Studio Education Teaching Intern
Position Summary
The Studio Education Teaching Internship provides an educational opportunity for students exploring a career in studio art, design, art education, or education-related field of study.
Through the Art Center’s Studio Education Internship Program, the intern will be introduced to methods of developing and teaching quality, hands on, age appropriate studio art education classes for ages two to 16. Alongside experienced Des Moines Art Center staff, the Studio Education Teaching Intern will teach the fundamentals of art and a variety of techniques and mediums while fostering creativity and enthusiasm for art making. The intern will be assigned studio classes to teach during the defined period of the internship, but will also participate in development activities and all aspects of the studio education department for broad exposure to the department’s role in museum operations.
Essential Functions
§ Teaches studio art camps independently as assigned; both in-person and virtually as required
§ Working closely with the Studio Education staff, develops learning objectives for studio art camps and classes
§ Creates unique and welcoming experiences for all students.
§ Job shadows and assists Art Center staff and instructors to gain an understanding of the department, museum operations, policies, and goals related to studio education.
Other Responsibilities
§ Prepares and cleans up studio space and supplies before and after class.
§ Attends faculty meetings and trainings
§ Acts in ways that reflect favorably on the Art Center and maintains professional standards in the quality of performance and demonstration of concern for the Art Center’s collection, programs, and facilities. Adheres to Des Moines Art Center Code of Ethics, Employee Handbook and other organizational policies.
Qualifications (work experience, education, certification) including KSAOs
§ Knowledge of art history and art movements
§ Approachability, patience and kindness are required
§ Ability to work effectively with children and teens
§ Must like children
§ Working knowledge of a variety of art materials and techniques
Decision Making
§ Exercises judgement and discretion in matters related to classroom management.
Reporting/Contacts
§ Studio Education Teaching Intern reports to the Studio Education Manager. This position has constant contact with students and parents and frequently interacts with and peers and managers in the education department.
Special Considerations (Work Environment, Schedule, Required Travel, etc.)
§ Most work is performed in an art studio or museum galleries. Camps occasionally take place outdoors, sometimes in mild heat or cold
§ Camps are generally scheduled or weekday mornings and/or afternoons in the summer during June, July and August
Physical Factors
§ Work is mostly sedentary or light work; however, the ability to lift or move 5 - 45 pounds is occasionally is required to rearrange studio equipment and move supplies
§ The ability to finger and grasp objects is required to demonstrate techniques and assist students
§ Must be able to kneel and crouch to assist small children
§ Must be able to stand and walk for sustained periods of time
Equipment Used
- Art supplies
- Simple tools (hammer, screwdriver, etc.)
- Paper cutter
Equal Employment Statement
The Art Center is dedicated to equal employment and advancement opportunities. It is the Art Center’s policy to hire and promote qualified individuals on the basis of their qualifications, interest and aptitude, without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information or any other protected group under applicable state, federal or local law.