Summary
The Stuart B. and Barbara Padnos Distinguished Artist-In-Residence position, made possible by the generosity of Mr. Stuart Padnos, is designed to enhance the learning experiences of students in the Department of Visual and Media Arts, both majors and non-majors. The Department is honored to have been the first unit on the GVSU campus to have an Endowed position.
Through sustained engagement with students and their practice, artists-in-residence provide instruction that strengthens both artistic technique and professional practice. Their teaching includes studio demonstrations, lectures, collaborative projects, critiques, portfolio development, and instruction in the business of the arts, including entrepreneurship, marketing, and career preparation. Candidates must have demonstrated the ability to work effectively with students in a mentorship/teaching context.
Individuals from all backgrounds, including from underrepresented groups, are encouraged to apply. Successful candidates must be able to effectively engage with students, colleagues, and community members with a broad range of backgrounds and experiences.
This position is consistent with Grand Valley State University Board of Trustees Policy 4.1.10. Further information about the position is available at https://www.gvsu.edu/vma/padnos-distinguished-artist-in-residence-125.htm
Responsibilities (Essential Functions)
Complete 80 working hours of curricular and co-curricular student engagement activities per academic year, including but not limited to:
Conducting/presenting lectures, seminars, or workshops that support the curriculum offered in the Department of Visual and Media Arts
Teaching Studio demonstrations and technique instruction
Providing career coaching and professional guidance
Teaching about the business of being an artist/designer/filmmaker/ photographer
Other high-impact experiences that foster the development of the student’s creative practice
Be available on campus throughout the academic year
Complete the selected project by June 30, 2028.
Maintain a high level of creative/scholarly activity and professional visibility. Projects that involve the local community as well as the student population are encouraged.
Secondary Responsibilities
Collaborate effectively with the university community (students, faculty, administrative and support staff) to complete a successful residency.
Maintain any documentation, permissions, or materials that pertain to the project and the appointment.
Contribute to the Department’s presence in the news and/or social media.
Promote the importance of education in visual and media arts in all communities they serve.
Ensure health and safety requirements in accordance with University policies and guidelines.
Complete a report at the end of the residency according to University guidelines.
Required Qualifications and Education
Bachelor’s Degree
Distinguished professional achievement in a discipline reflected/represented by the Department of Visual & Media Arts: Art Education, Art History, Film and Video Production, Film and Video Studies, Photography, and Studio Art (Foundations, Ceramics, Drawing, Graphic Design, Illustration, Jewelry and Metalsmithing, Painting, Printmaking, Sculpture, Visual Studies)
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, such as the ability to interact with others with respect and empathy.
Demonstrated the ability to work effectively with students in a mentorship/teaching context .
Salary/Benefits
Compensation per semester in residence:
Fall semester: $25,000
Winter semester: $20,000
Limited benefits package including medical, life insurance, wellness resources and tuition waiver effective on date of hire
Additional Forms of Support
Housing allowance: $8,000
Project Development budget: $20,000 (the proposed project must be completed by July 31, 2028, and presented in September 2028). The Project Development Budget may be used for material support for developing the project, professional…