Adjunct Instructor, Department of Painting & Printmaking

Overview

Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar is recruiting an adjunct instructor for the Fall 2026 semester in the Painting & Printmaking program. The role is centered on teaching PAPR 491 Q01 – Topics: Speaker Series FANOON.

This course examines contemporary art through direct interaction with prominent artists, curators, and cultural practitioners from Qatar, the region, and other parts of the world. The instructor will lead the seminar portion of the class, support students in reading, research, discussion, and critical reflection, and help connect public artist talks to students' learning and creative exploration.

Over the semester, four to five guest speakers will deliver public lectures at Mathaf, followed by studio visits, workshops, dialogue sessions, and site-based learning experiences with the enrolled students. In the intervals between these visits, the class will focus on current artistic practice, exhibition development, institutional critique, and how artists operate within wider social and cultural environments.

The course ends with a collaborative publication that records and reflects on the semester's conversations, encounters, and research work.

The preferred candidate will have a strong background in contemporary art, curatorial work, art criticism, exhibition-making, or a related area, together with a clear commitment to teaching and mentoring students in a multicultural academic setting.

Responsibilities

• Finish all mandatory university training, including any required compliance training such as FERPA, before the first class meeting.
• Distribute a course syllabus at the opening class that explains the course goals, structure, expectations, grading approach, and any policies shared by the Director.
• Apply department and university rules in a professional and constructive way.
• Prepare carefully for each session so studio time is used effectively to advance the course learning outcomes.
• Evaluate all student work and deliver prompt, useful feedback.
• Enter midterm and final grades within the timeline and process set by the university registrar.
• Take part in all departmental meetings.

Academic Background and Profile

Applicants should hold a terminal degree such as an MFA in a relevant discipline, or a BFA accompanied by substantial advanced training and/or professional experience that is comparable to a terminal degree.

The role also calls for strong interpersonal abilities, a collaborative mindset, and genuine enthusiasm for teaching in a multicultural environment.

Candidates must have proven experience contributing to and supporting a respectful, professional, and civil environment among faculty, staff, and students from diverse backgrounds, or show a clear commitment to doing so as a faculty member at VCU.

Applicants must be eligible to work in Qatar or meet the applicable immigration and employment requirements under Qatari law.

Preferred Expertise

Additional strength in one or more of the following areas is preferred: painting, new printmaking, digital and traditional photography, sculpture and installation, and video art and film.

Application Requirements

Applications must be submitted online through the VCU Jobs Website. Only applications received through that portal will be considered.

• Current CV.
• Cover letter or letter of interest that outlines teaching philosophy and professional practice.
• Names and contact details of three references.

Additional Information

This position is based in Qatar and is part-time, onsite academic employment for the Fall 2026 semester.