NIGEL OWEN, SENIOR LECTURER
E: nowen@falmouth.ac.uk
T: +44 (0)7941 797 663
W: owenillustration.com
I: instagram.com/nigelowen1967
Having performed the roles of both Head of Illustration and also Course Leader between 2011 and 2020, Nigel decided to shift his focus in early 2021 to teaching on the BA(Hons) Illustration and Illustration: Authorial Practice MA. Nigel’s teaching has always been inextricably linked with his career as a freelance illustrator where both inform and support each other. The ability to remain relevant and conversant within the rapidly shifting sands of the illustration industry has become something that students now expect, so for Nigel, this connection has been mutually beneficial and self-sustaining. Not only does the student attain knowledge of their subject and valuable insights into current and established industry practice but, as their tutor, Nigel is constantly reinvigorating and stretching his own knowledge of the subject.
The main focus of Nigel’s freelance career has been editorial illustration, having worked for most of the major UK daily newspapers whilst also working for other major editorial clients in the UK & the US, such as, New Scientist, The Lancet, International Herald Tribune etc. The fast turnaround and often conceptual nature of the editorial brief can push the illustrator to their limits but the experience can be hugely satisfying. A significant aspect of Nigel’s career as a freelance illustrator has been the need to embrace sound business practice: A good understanding of how to market oneself, nurture strong business connections, be fully aware of important issues surrounding contracts, copyright law etc. Nigel has worked in a number of studio environments including the renowned ‘Big Orange Studio’.
Examples of clients Nigel has worked for during his capacity as a freelance Illustrator over the last 30 years:
EXAMPLES OF WORK
‘Bodegas Terras Gaudas’, Longlisted for the Francisco Mantecon Poster Competition (Spain)
Poster advertising the United Kingdom displayed at International airports, United Airlines
Editorial illustration, New Scientist
‘Illustrated map of Bolivia’, National Geographic
‘Infectious Diseases Cover’, one 24 covers commissioned for the iconic Lancet Medical Journal
‘Head Hole – Unlocking the Mind’, Personal Work
‘Franklin Hotel’, Slab Serif City Project, Personal Work
BA(Hons) Illustration
Become adept at problem solving and creating your visual language on an illustration course renowned for its professional practice and industry connections. From day one you’ll have your own desk space, and be encouraged to embrace the studio culture of creative communities.
MA Illustration Online
Examine your practice in relation to the constantly evolving nature of the subject globally and culturally
MA Authorial Illustration
Develop your unique authorial voice on this studio-based MA Illustration course. You’ll learn to see your work as an evolving practice, as you challenge and re-evaluate your personal visual language with the help of experienced practitioners.
