معرفی
David Terrill is a Professor and Interim Chair of Illustration at the Kansas City Art Institute (KCAI) for Spring 2025. He also holds a part-time role as Creative Director/Director of Talent at C3, a family design agency. His artistic journey began in an Ohio steel mill while attending Miami University, transitioning through freelance illustration and design agency work before securing his faculty position. David emphasizes unscripted, fearless mark-making techniques in his art, often inspired by literature like Mervyn Peake’s Gormenghast series and Neil Gaiman’s American Gods.
Education: David studied at Miami University, though specific degree details are not provided. His work integrates diverse mediums including ink, oil, acrylic, scratchboard, and mixed media, with a focus on allegorical storytelling and character portraiture. He has exhibited globally, including the Society of Illustrators Hallmark Symposium and the Carter Art Center Gallery. Recent projects include an interactive digital novella concept exploring narrative through visual art and participation in the Psyche Inspired initiative, partnering with NASA’s Psyche mission to translate scientific content into artistic works.
Research interests span literary illustration, experimental mark-making with razor blades, and allegorical themes derived from travel and observation. His China Sketchbook project documents family adventures like hiking the Great Wall and residing in Beijing’s Hutongs. Awards include recognition from American Illustration Annuals (41-42), Creative Quarterly, and 3X3 Magazine. He is a frequent speaker at symposiums such as ICON9 and ICON10, discussing pedagogical innovations and the role of sketchbooks in artistic communication. David currently serves on the education advisory board for ICON 11.
Advising and collaborations: While no formal students are listed, David mentors through workshops and lectures. He collaborated with Chef Todd Schulte on ArtFare 2023, pairing art with culinary elements. He also contributed to the Vanderslice Hall restoration project at KCAI, blending art and community impact. Upcoming projects include a summer 2023 mixed-media workshop and continued development of the What the Gardener Saw digital novella.
Labs and teams: Part of KCAI’s faculty and the Vanderslice Committee. Involved with the Mythology of Earl series, a multi-piece exploration of character mythologies through varied mediums. His work is featured in exhibitions like Ambiguous (2021-2022) and the AIGA KC A16 Exhibition, showcasing both traditional and digital art forms.
