Keith Nevens

Keith Nevens is a Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader for the Integrated Foundation Year (IFY) and BA (Hons) Advertising and Design via Trans National Education (TNE) at the University of Sunderland. He has been with the institution since 1996 and teaches courses such as BA Graphic Design, Fashion Design and Promotion, Animation and Games Art, and Illustration and Design. His research focuses on the therapeutic benefits of drawing and its role in mental health, particularly as a 'digital detox,' and explores motivational drivers in creative fields. He is Programme Leader for TNE partnerships in Malaysia (IACT) and Greece (AAS), emphasizing global education outreach.

Keith’s creative practice includes sketching (pencils, charcoal, watercolor) and he is an active member of the Urban Sketchers Network. He has over 30 years of industry experience in illustration, graphic design, advertising, and print. His teaching spans observational drawing, Photoshop, and editorial/wildlife illustration.

His research combines creative industry insights with psychological aspects of art, advocating for mindfulness through visual arts. He currently holds full-time employment and contributes to curriculum development across multiple programs.