Job Summary

Working from live models is an integral part of the RISD student learning experience. To support this work, Rhode Island School of Design maintains a registry of models available for assignment to a wide range of classes.

Figure Models provide inspiration to students in classroom settings by holding a variety of poses or moving through a range of gestures for the purpose of inspiring works of art. Models may pose alone or with other models. Poses may include any one or a combination of the following: nudity, costuming, demonstration of gestures, demonstration of grace or fluidity of the human body, demonstration of strength, depiction of skeletal and/or muscular structure, and depiction of fullness, roundness, and/or curves.

RISD is seeking figure models for the Fall ‘26 semester who represent a wide range of body shapes, sizes, muscle tone, ages, and skin tones. We encourage applicants who thrive in inclusive studio settings and who are committed to supporting RISD’s mission through respectful, collaborative engagement with students and faculty.

Required Knowledge/Skills/Experience

• Modeling Experience — Experience in or knowledge of modeling required.

• Pose Retention — Must be able to recapture ongoing poses between breaks.

• Patience & Endurance — Ability to wait without working for long periods of time.

• Studio Conduct — Understanding of and respect for creative and teaching processes; ability to support these processes without interruption.

• Collaboration — Ability to work with others and/or independently and to take instruction.

• Creative Environment — Demonstrated ability to foster and elicit an energetic and creative environment.

• Inclusive Practice — Demonstrated success working with diverse populations in an inclusive environment

Employment Arrangement (Agency Hire)

Agency Engagement Notice:  

Candidates selected for this role will be engaged through a third‑party staffing agency. The agency will serve as the employer of record, and all onboarding, payroll, and employment documentation will be completed through the agency’s process. RISD will oversee work assignments, scheduling, and performance expectations.

Work Schedule

Various hours; on‑call as needed.

Employment Status

On‑Call

Documents Needed to Apply

• Resume (REQUIRED)

• Please attach a picture of yourself, NO COVER LETTER IS REQUIRED

• Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please upload all required documents.

The successful candidate will be required to meet RISD’s pre‑employment background screening requirements.

Salary Grade Structure

Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please upload all required documents.

The successful candidate will be required to meet our pre-employment background screening requirements.

RISD recognizes inclusion and belonging as fundamental to its learning and working community and integral to an art and design education. We welcome candidates whose experience has prepared them to contribute to this community and to our commitment to excellence. RISD is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, or any other protected characteristic as established by law.