Teaching Artist FAQs
What is an ArtsWestchester Teaching Artist?
To be listed in our Teaching Artist directory, an artist must pass our rigorous panel process to be ready to work in schools and human services sites. Professional artists working in all fields and media are welcome to apply—currently the list encompasses visual art, theater, video, music, dance, book arts, slam poetry, computer arts and more. Each artist must have a proven track record of artistic achievement, along with the training and skills needed to bring learning to life through the arts in classrooms or human services sites.
Browse our current list of teaching artists online in our Artist Directory under the Teaching Artists tab.
Are you an artist? Keep reading to find out how you can become a Teaching Artist!
What are the benefits?
You will make a difference in the way the populations you work with learn while earning supplemental income and fostering your development as an artist. Our artists receive on-going professional development training helping you develop skills, knowledge, and effectiveness as a teaching artist. Being a part of our family of teaching artists also provides networking opportunities, fosters collaborations, and functions as support system.
Who can apply?
Artists of any discipline who live or maintain a studio/performance space in Westchester County and are currently active in their field.
How do I apply The application process is competitive and consists of a written application an interview, and a review of your work as an artist.
>Download the 2012 Teaching Artist Application & Guidelines
The next deadlines for Teaching Artist Applications:
Friday, March 30, 2012 at 5pm.
Friday, September 28, 2012 at 5pm.
Applications are to be received by 5pm. Application workshops are scheduled on Wednesday, March 14 and Wednesday, September 12, 2012 at 5:00pm.
Does My Application Expire? Yes, you must reapply every fifth year. >Download the 2012 Teaching Artist Renewal Application & Guidelines
What skills and experience do I need?
- A track record of creative work and professional accomplishments that show artistic merit
- The ability to work collaboratively with schools and social service agencies
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Knowledge and understanding of curricula and the needs of particular groups, such as pre-school age children, seniors, teens, persons with disabilities, etc.
- Experience conducting residencies and/or hands-on workshops
How does it work?
You create a profile on our online Artist Directory, and we include the profile in our Artist Roster Handbook. Schools and agencies browse the on-line directory or the PDF handbook to select the artist with whom they would like to partner. If you are selected, ArtsWestchester will work with you and the school or agency to plan the residency. You will be paid by ArtsWestchester’s residency grants program. In any given year, you may receive several grants, one grant, or none. Many organizations use the Artist Roster as a resource, and your participation on the Roster may lead to other opportunities.
How much will I get paid?
Residency grants vary according to the length, but are based on the following rates:
- $300 per full day (three to five hours),
- $150 per half day (one to three hours),
- $125 per planning session, and
- $125 per wrap up session (when applicable)
Is there a fee to participate?
NO. This is a free program, designed to help working artist earn supplemental income. The only cost to you is the time it takes to go through the application process.
>Download the 2012 Teaching Artist Application & Guidelines and get started today!
