About
Nigel Owen is a Course Leader for Illustration BA(Hons) and teaches on both the BA(Hons) Illustration and Illustration: Authorial Practice MA programs at Falmouth University. He has held roles including Head of Illustration and Course Leader since 2011. His academic work is closely tied to his freelance illustration career, emphasizing relevance to industry trends. Owen holds a BA (Hons) Graphic Design (2:1) from Central Saint Martins College of Art & Design (1989) and a Foundation in Art & Design from Grimsby School of Art & Design (1986).
Research interests include documenting visual problem-solving strategies in illustration education, the cultural use of maps, and alternative narrative approaches. He explores the interplay between digital and traditional techniques, particularly in relief printmaking (lino/woodcut) and hand-rendered typography. His professional practice spans editorial illustration for major clients like The Lancet, New Scientist, and Penguin Books.
Award highlights include AOI awards for book cover and editorial work (2003–2004) and exhibition recognition in international competitions. Owen serves as an External Examiner for MA Illustration at Kingston University and BA Illustration at Leeds College of Arts. He has exhibited widely, including group shows at the Slade Research Institute (2009) and Falmouth Arts Centre (2008).
Professional engagements include freelance commissions across the UK and US, studio collaborations (e.g., Big Orange Studio), and advocacy for illustrator business practices. His work bridges academic teaching, freelance creativity, and experimental narrative formats.
