David Brinley

David Brinley is an Associate Professor of Art and Design at the University of Delaware, where he teaches within the College of Arts and Sciences. An award-winning artist and illustrator, his work has appeared in major publications including Time magazine, Rolling Stone, Newsweek, Sports Illustrated, GQ, The Washington Post, and The New York Times magazine.

Brinley specializes in editorial illustration, fine art painting, and digital art, with particular expertise in portraiture and conceptual illustration. His work often addresses contemporary political and social issues through a distinctive visual language that combines traditional painting techniques with digital media. His artistic practice spans commercial editorial work, gallery exhibitions, and personal projects that explore themes of identity, politics, and cultural commentary.

Brinley's work has been featured in numerous prestigious annuals including American Illustration, Communication Arts, and the Society of Illustrators. His recent output shows a consistent focus on American politics, celebrity culture, and social commentary, with increasing attention to digital techniques while maintaining strong foundations in traditional painting. His 2022-2025 works demonstrate remarkable versatility across diverse subject matter while maintaining a distinctive visual signature.

Notable Awards and Recognitions:

• GRAPHIS GOLD award for Protest Posters 2 (2021)
• BEST OF SHOW at Phillustration 9
• Selected for Illustration West Annual 63 (2024/25)
• Multiple selections in American Illustration 43 annual (2024)
• Included in Lürzer's Archive 200 Best Digital Artists, Edition 7 (2025)
• Honorable Mention in 3x3 annual competitions

Brinley maintains an active professional practice while teaching at the University of Delaware. His studio work continues to evolve, with recent projects showing increased integration of digital techniques while maintaining strong connections to traditional painting methods. He has developed notable long-term relationships with publications like Pakn Treger magazine, for which he has created work for twelve consecutive years.