Transylvania University

Assistant Professor of Studio Art - Design

Transylvania University (www.transy.edu) invites applications for a 9-month, tenure-track position in Studio Art, beginning August 25, 2027. Rooted in a strong liberal arts curriculum, Transylvania’s art program encourages the interplay of ideas from a variety of disciplines. Students explore personal and global issues in their studio work and analyze these ideas in their classes. The program’s philosophy rests on the firm belief that the best art draws from both broad social issues and aesthetic concerns. The studio art program introduces students to the fundamentals through courses in drawing, design, painting, photography, sculpture, ceramics, and art history.

Why Join Transylvania University?

Founded in 1780, Transylvania University is one of the nation’s oldest institutions. Ranked in the Top 100 Best Liberal Arts colleges for 2025 by Niche, we’re a vibrant campus in the heart of Lexington, Kentucky full of curious minds, creative energy, and people who genuinely love what they do. We are mentors and community builders who help shape the next generation of thinkers, creators and leaders. We cultivate independent thinking, open-mindedness, creative expression and commitment to lifelong learning and social responsibility in a diverse world. With approximately 1,000 students, Transylvania is a student-centered institution with small class sizes. We offer additional opportunities for travel and team-taught courses, and a focus on experiential learning.

Who are we looking for?

Eligible candidates will have an MFA in in studio art, design, or a related field by the start date. All relevant design experience, both professional and academic, will be considered. Preference will be given to candidates with expertise in Design, including but not limited to design theory, graphic design, product design, and/or digital design (UI/UX). Applicants with an art practice that extends beyond design and includes digital and/or print media are particularly encouraged to apply. The successful candidate will have a commitment to teaching, value interdisciplinary dialogue, and work collaboratively with other faculty. The teaching load consists of three courses per term, plus one short-term course in May term (3-3-1). Responsibilities include:

• Teach introductory courses in Graphic Design and will be responsible for building a comprehensive design curriculum, including courses on topics within their area of specialty. Contributing to core classes—such as Guided Studio and senior capstone sequence in Studio Art—as well as teaching courses that are cross-listed in the Digital Arts & Media program is expected.
• Supervision of community internships and independent research. 
• Maintain a recognized creative practice and service to the university through various committee appointments, divisional recruiting, and academic advising.

How do you apply?

Qualified candidates should submit a single PDF including:

• a cover letter
• curriculum vitae
• artist statement
• statement of teaching philosophy
• portfolio of 20-30 images (including titles, media, and dates)
• unofficial graduate transcripts
• link to professional website (if available)
• up to 20 images of student work (optional)
• list of at least three professional references

The successful candidate will be asked to provide official graduate transcripts and be subject to a background check. Send questions specific to this search to Dr. Emily Goodman, search committee chair, at egoodman@transy.edu. 

Transylvania University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to enhancing the diversity of the university community. In support of this goal, we embrace diversity and encourage applications from qualified candidates with a wide range of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences.