I am a Senior Lecturer at the University of Staffordshire, where I teach across a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
I have illustrated for a wide variety of publications including The Spectator, Private Eye, Third Sector, New Statesman, The Oldie, The Bookseller, Practical Family History, Blocks, The Sun and several others. Over the past several years, I have specialised in Graphic Medicine, and my illustration work currently features in the University and College Counselling magazine, which focuses on educational student support.
My illustrated story The Hiraeth Club dealt with grief and loss and was shortlisted for The First Graphic Novel Award. At the time, it was noted by the judges that “(Gareth Cowlin) should be bereaved more often”, which I chose to read as a compliment.
After working in the illustration industry for many years, I decided to combine my love of art with my passion for teaching, and my role at Staffordshire University allows me to share my knowledge and experience with the next generation of comic illustrators.
I exhibit and sell work online and I am currently represented by CartoonStock.
Professional memberships and activities
- Fellow of the Higher Education Academy
Academic qualifications
- Post Graduate Certificate in Education – MMU (2007 – 2008)
- Graphic Communication (MA) – University of Glamorgan (2004 – 2005)
- Film and Video BA (Hons) – Surrey Institute of Art and Design (1996 – 1999)
- Foundation Diploma in Art and Design – University of Wales Institute, Cardiff (1995 – 1996)
Expertise
- Graphic Medicine
- Pocket Cartoons
- Comic Strips
- Multimedia in Narrative Storytelling
Research interests
I have a strong interest in Graphic Medicine, and I have produced several illustrative features for a range of publications including the University and College Counselling Magazine, which focused on student mental health.
I am currently working on a new illustrated story which looks at mental health within the illustration industry.
Teaching
I teach across a range of Cartoon and Comic Arts BA (Hons) modules, and I am also the supervisor for students on the MA Arts and Creative Technologies (by negotiated study) course.