David Cross

David Cross is a Professor of Fine Art at the University of the Arts London (UAL), based at Camberwell, Chelsea and Wimbledon Colleges. His academic career includes roles such as Member of UAL's Social Purpose Advisory Group (2023–2028) and Link Tutor for Falmouth University's PhD program (2013–2026). He holds an MA(RCA) from the Royal College of Art (1991) and BA(Hons) from Central Saint Martins (1989), complemented by training in supervising art and design research degrees.

His research critically examines intersections between visual culture, ecological crises, and institutional practices. Key themes include fossil fuel divestment advocacy (leading UAL's 2015 campaign), climate justice integration with decolonization, and transforming higher education through ecopedagogy. Cross's work bridges art practice and activism, exemplified by his 2012 designation of his UAL role as an 'artist’s placement' to drive ethical institutional change.

Professional memberships include UAL’s Climate and Ecological Emergency Group, where he influenced Science-Based Targets for carbon neutrality. His artistic collaborations with Matthew Cornford (1987–present) explore socio-environmental themes through installations addressing urban regeneration, financial systems, and ecological survival.

Notable works include The Art of the Possible (2018) critiquing public sculpture and capital, Afterimage series (2014) examining material ethics in art production, and Black Narcissus (2016) linking financial data to mountain landscapes. His pedagogical focus on transformative education is articulated in works like A Placement for Everyone (2018).