Venice Arts is a non-profit arts organization whose mission is to ignite, expand, and transform the lives of Los Angeles’ low-income youth through photography and film education, and to use our participatory storytelling practices to amplify the voices of underrepresented communities around the world.
Venice Arts seeks a part-time Lead Photographer to teach in its award-winning Art Mentoring and Education Program, with an assignment of three-to-four academic year classes and one Summer Media Arts Camp class. During the COVID-19 pandemic, while classes are largely expected to be in-person, remote teaching may also be required. Working under the Director of Education, responsibilities include:
Syllabi Planning and Development
Teaching
Supervise Mentors, Assistants, and/or Interns Assigned to Classes
Culminating Exhibition
Archive
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
Note: Venice Arts adheres to strict COVID-19 health and safety guidelines. This position is required to work on-site so long as there are no shut-downs to our sector.
General: The ideal candidate is a graduate of a photography program (graduate degree preferred, but not required), with documentary, photojournalism, and/or street photography experience strongly preferred. Candidate is personable, an excellent communicator, and able to self-initiate and work independently. Must posses a high level of technical expertise with cameras, computers (Apple), and software (Adobe Suite); experience with audio capture and multi-media a strong plus, as is experience with project-based learning. Must posses valid California Driver’s License with a clean record for at least five years, and must be willing to transport students in Venice Arts’ van.
Arts education background: Candidate has at least two years experience teaching photography to young people (middle- and high-school strongly preferred); experience teaching at the beginning to advanced levels an asset. Candidate demonstrates knowledge of historic and contemporary photographers and photographic practices; and is highly proficient at building a syllabus with sequenced lessons that build youths’ conceptual knowledge, critical thinking, and creativity, while demonstrating an experiential, and project-based approach to learning. An understanding of the educational equity needs of low-income youth a plus, as is being bilingual (Spanish/English) and bicultural. Experience designing/delivering photo workshops remotely, a plus. A working artist is preferred.
Schedule and compensation: This part-time position pays $22,500 per annum and receives a benefits package that includes health, vacation, and the opportunity to contribute to a 401(k). There is some flexibility in the work schedule, although afternoons and Saturdays will be required during the academic year.
Send résumé with a cover letter highlighting relevant experience to [email protected] Please indicate “Lead Photographer” in subject line. Please: No phone enquiries or walk-ins. Portfolio, curricular, or other materials may be requested if an interview is scheduled.