Leland Burke

Leland Burke is a Professor in the Department of Animation at the Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt), where he has served as a founding faculty member since 2001. He holds an MFA with Honors from the Rhode Island School of Design and a BFA from the University of Georgia, bringing over three decades of professional experience in animation, illustration, and graphic design.

• MFA with Honors, Rhode Island School of Design
• BFA, The University of Georgia

His research and creative interests center on animation and visual storytelling, with strong interdisciplinary engagement in graphic design and digital art. His work bridges academic practice and industry, emphasizing narrative development, motion graphics, and experimental animation techniques.

Leland Burke's professional portfolio reflects a deep engagement with both commercial and artistic domains. His illustration and animation work has been featured in prestigious publications including The New Yorker, The New York Times, Forbes, Vogue, and The Boston Globe, as well as for major clients such as American Express, IBM, and Levi Strauss. He has contributed to networks like Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network, and directed projects through Olive Jar Studios.

Though no formal scientific awards are listed, his influence is evident through his extensive industry presence and creative output. He has also mentored numerous students in animation and design, fostering emerging talent through hands-on studio practice and professional collaboration.

Burke maintains an active creative profile, with a collection of animation works available on his Vimeo channel, showcasing personal and student-inspired projects such as The Creek, Reel 2006, and Running Time. He continues to contribute to the animation community through teaching, practice, and public exhibitions.