Gregory Cumins

Gregory Cumins serves as Professor at the University of the Arts Berlin, where he holds the position of Artistic Director of Fine Arts at Primary Schools within the Institute of Art. He has maintained this academic role since 2014 while simultaneously pursuing an active international artistic career. His office hours are by appointment, with a standing availability on Monday from 9-10 am.

His educational background includes:

• Studied sculpture at the Ecole Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts, Paris, France under English artist Richard Deacon - DNSAP 1999

Cumins' artistic practice centers on contemporary visual arts with a particular focus on painting and drawing. His work consistently explores themes of perception, identity, and spatial relationships, often challenging conventional perspectives through series like "Positive Thinking," "Sequence," and "Outline." His artistic methodology combines traditional techniques with conceptual frameworks that examine the boundaries between reality and artistic interpretation, creating works that engage viewers in complex visual dialogues about representation and perception.

His exhibition history reveals a consistent evolution from traditional portraiture toward more conceptual explorations of visual language. His recent work demonstrates increasing sophistication in handling complex themes like digital identity, spatial perception, and narrative sequencing, while maintaining technical excellence in both acrylic painting and pencil drawing. The progression from figurative works like "Entre Autres" to more conceptual series like "Draw Back" shows his artistic development over time.

His notable achievements include:

• 3rd prize, BP Portrait Award 2005, National Portrait Gallery, London, UK
• Prix spécial du jury (Prix Nicolas de Staël), 50th Salon d'Art Contemporain de Montrouge, France, 2005
• 4th Place, Visitor's choice, BP Portrait Award 2006, National Portrait Gallery, London, UK

As an educator, Cumins oversees a vibrant studio class at the University of the Arts Berlin with support from student employees Matilda Aufschlager, Sarah Wilhelm, David Ernst, and Frauke Bökelmann. His teaching environment is enriched by visiting professionals including Visiting Professor Lucia Kempkes, Guest lecturer Anna Slobodnik, and Studio practice lead Marina Dafova, creating a dynamic educational ecosystem that bridges academic instruction with professional artistic practice.

Cumins maintains an active studio practice while fulfilling his academic responsibilities, with his work represented internationally by Jill Silverman van Coenegrachts - JSVCartprojects in London and Galerie Metropolis in Paris. His artistic research continues to evolve, with recent projects exploring conceptual frameworks for understanding visual perception and representation in contemporary society, particularly examining the relationship between traditional media and contemporary conceptual concerns in the digital age.