The Department of Studio Art at the University of Mary Washington invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Studio Art in Sculpture, beginning in August 2025. The successful candidate will be an innovative and dedicated teacher with an active exhibition record and significant experience in teaching. Within our vibrant department, the five members of our studio art faculty each specialize in different media, while working together to create engaging educational experiences for motivated undergraduate students. 

The primary responsibilities of this position include teaching three courses per semester (foundational, intermediate, and advanced levels), managing the sculpture studio, performing service, and fulfilling professional commitments. An MFA (to be completed by May 2025) with a focus on contemporary, conceptually driven sculpture, evidence of an active record of professional activity, and prior teaching experience are required. 

Highly qualified candidates will demonstrate teaching excellence in an environment that values diverse talents and backgrounds, along with a commitment to working in a small, collaborative liberal arts setting. We are particularly interested in candidates whose teaching and professional interests will enhance the university’s commitment to a curriculum that meets the needs of our evolving student demographic. Ideal candidates will have experience in a variety of 3D building practices and materials. The ability to contribute to other instructional areas at the university—such as freshman seminars or interdisciplinary programs—or to teach additional courses in the department, such as professional practice courses, is also a desirable asset. 

The University of Mary Washington (UMW) is a public liberal arts and sciences university dedicated to effective teaching and the integration of research and creative work into the undergraduate curriculum. The Department offers a major in Studio Art and supports minors in Pre-Conservation, Digital Studies, and Museum Studies in collaboration with other departments. Our home in Melchers Hall is scheduled for a major renovation, with schematic designs complete and construction scheduled to begin in 2027. The successful new hire can look forward to newly renovated studios, galleries, and office spaces for the fine and performing arts (Art, Music, and Theatre). 

Recently recognized as a “Great College to Work For” by The Chronicle of Higher Education and one of the country’s “Best Colleges” by U.S. News & World Report, UMW is centrally located between Washington, D.C., and Richmond, Virginia. Fredericksburg’s arts community boasts a large number of active artists and studios, along with exhibition and studio rental opportunities. UMW faculty and students also enjoy easy access to the artistic resources, galleries, and museums offered by our nation’s capital to the north and our state capital to the south, both just an hour away.