An art professor is a person who teaches students about art in a college or university setting. In many countries, universities only award the title “professor” to those who hold a departmental chair in their chosen field of study, and it denotes the highest academic rank possible. Based on his area of expertise, an art professor teaches students a variety of artistic practices. Those who are referred to as art professors usually specialize in visual art rather than performing arts or music. Art professors, on the other hand, are professors who practice and teach any form of art, which is defined as anything that is purposefully arranged to engage the senses.
Professor is a term that is sometimes used specifically to refer to tenured professors. This means that they are hired by a university for life and can only be fired for “just cause.” An art professor would be tenured at a university if the administration believes that the artist can advance his field without fear of losing his job. This is where the concept of academic freedom comes into play; an art professor may be afraid to teach controversial methods or to practice experimental or controversial art. He might be able to make significant progress in his field without fear of being fired.
In and out of the classroom, an art professor must provide instruction and guidance to his students. Art professors are usually working artists who use the resources of the universities they work for to create their own work. Depending on their specialization, they teach a variety of artistic methods in the classroom, ranging from sculpture to painting. Their own work and dedication to their field outside of the classroom is meant to be an inspiration and a guide to their students.
By the broad definition of art, an art professor could teach any aspect of the vast field. Sketching to theater are all considered visual arts, though theater and cinema are also considered performing arts. Because music is such an important part of the larger field of art, a music professor could also be considered an art professor. Whatever subfield of art the professor teaches, he is essentially doing the same thing: instructing students in the classroom and through his own work.
Art instruction entails more than just methodology. A professor of art also works to expose students to the work of other well-known artists. Art professors are responsible for instilling in their students a broad understanding of the field in which they are working.