Manager, Studio Programs

About the role

The Manager of Studio Programs leads the strategic vision, planning, and execution of studio-based artmaking experiences across Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and the Momentary (CBMO), including the Learning & Engagement Hub Studios. This role oversees a growing portfolio of programs including class series, workshops, drop-in artmaking, and a Teaching Artist in Residence program, ensuring all offerings are high-quality, inclusive, and accessible to diverse audiences. As a key leader within Public Programs, this position manages and mentors a team of educators and teaching artists, fostering a collaborative, creative, and accountable work environment.

Responsibilities

• Provide strong leadership and supervision to studio educators and teaching artists, including hiring, training, mentoring, and performance management.
• Lead the planning, development, and execution of a suite of studio programs, including classes, workshops, drop-in artmaking, and new studio programming.
• Oversee the Teaching Artist in Residence program and support artists in developing high-quality, engaging programs and experiences.
• Develop and implement long-range strategies for studio program growth, aligned with institutional priorities and the expansion of the L&E Hub Studios.
• Manage program operations, including scheduling, staffing, budgets, materials, and timelines, ensuring efficient and high-quality delivery.
• Design and lead select studio programs and workshops, modeling best practices in teaching and facilitation.
• Evaluate program effectiveness using data and feedback, and implement improvements to increase impact, attendance, and revenue.
• Contribute to marketing and communications strategies, including development of program descriptions and interpretive content.
• Develop clear, engaging written materials for studio activities, including instructions, curriculum, and public-facing content.

Qualifications and Skills

• Practicing artist with formal training in studio art, art education, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of experience developing and leading studio programs, preferably in a museum or cultural institution.
• Demonstrated leadership and management experience, including supervising teams and managing teaching artists or educators.
• Strong teaching background, with the ability to lead studio-based classes for a range of ages and skill levels.
• Deep knowledge of visual arts and hands-on experience across multiple media, with particular strength in ceramics and familiarity with a wide range of materials and processes.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills, with experience managing complex schedules and budgets.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including content development for public audiences.
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively across departments and with external partners.
• Knowledge of museum pedagogy, audience engagement strategies, and inclusive teaching practices.
• Ability to remain flexible, solution-oriented, and composed in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and willingness to learn systems such as Asana, Momentous, and Tessitura.