John Hairston

John Hairston is a full-time Professor of Art at Winthrop University, specializing in illustration and fine art. He holds a BFA in Illustration from UNC Charlotte (2003) and an MFA in Illustration from the University of Hartford (2021). His work merges street art, expressionist techniques, and vibrant aesthetics, reflecting influences from hip-hop culture and comic books.

Research interests include exploring cultural narratives through visual mediums, with a focus on urban art, identity, and creativity. Notable projects include the "Hollywood Africans" and "Native Tongues" exhibitions, murals for Charlotte’s Talking Walls festival, and collaborations with Grammy-nominated artists. He has also authored children’s books, including the upcoming The Grooviest Grandfolks (2025).

• Awards: Charlotte Shout! Poster Contest (2018), Center City Vision Award (2016), Midsouth Regional Emmy (2015).
• Professional Work: Freelance illustrator for the ACC Network, NBA, NFL, NCAA, and artists like The Wu-Tang and Earthgang.

Hairston emphasizes interdisciplinary creativity and advises students to balance artistic passion with professional pragmatism. His career highlights include publishing the Collected Works series and contributing to the 60th-anniversary Generations exhibition at UNC Charlotte’s Department of Art & Art History.