Chris Mullen, a distinguished figure in art and design education, has died at the age of 81. His career spanned decades, marked by a deep commitment to integrating contextual studies with practical studio work, and he leaves behind a legacy of inspiration through his extensive collection of visual materials.
Early Career and Teaching Philosophy
Mullen began his teaching journey in 1972 at the Norwich School of Art, where he served as a lecturer in liberal studies on a vocational design course. He quickly gained a reputation for his engaging and entertaining performances in the lecture theatre, while simultaneously developing innovative ideas to better blend theoretical studies with hands-on studio practice. This approach laid the foundation for his future contributions to art education.
Move to University of Brighton
In 1989, Mullen transitioned to the University of Brighton as a senior lecturer. There, he played a pivotal role in teaching on a new MA course in narrative illustration and editorial design, collaborating with notable figures such as John Vernon Lord and George Hardie. From 1995 until his retirement in 2005, he served as a research supervisor on the studio-based PhD course, mentoring numerous students and fostering academic excellence.
The Visual Library and Its Impact
Outside the classroom, Mullen was an avid collector, amassing a vast library focused on visual communication. This collection included books, magazines, and printed ephemera covering a wide range of subjects. He generously shared this resource with his students, who were often surprised and inspired by the rich seam of unfamiliar visual material. Much of this collection can be viewed on his website, The Visual Telling of Stories, serving as a lasting testament to his dedication.
Many of his former students, including internationally acclaimed artists like Barbara Loftus and Clare Strand, have acknowledged how Mullen's compendium of obscure and overlooked imagery, combined with his constructive criticism and sensitive encouragement, profoundly clarified their ideas and artistic practices. His influence extended beyond mere teaching, shaping the careers of countless individuals in the art world.
Personal Life and Background
Born in Liverpool, Mullen was the elder son of Marjorie (nee Noel) and Peter Mullen. His father worked as a fundraiser for renal research. After the family relocated to Hertfordshire, Mullen attended Watford Boys Grammar School from 1956 to 1963, where he formed a close friendship with the author of this obituary. He graduated from the University of East Anglia in 1968 with a degree in the history of art, followed by a PhD in 1971, which launched his teaching career.
Research and Publications
Mullen's academic research was both diverse and impactful. One notable study explored the relationship between cigarette pack design and popular culture, resulting in the publication of Cigarette Pack Art in 1979. Another significant project focused on the American business magazine Fortune from 1930 to 1965. Through interviews with contributing designers, photographers, and illustrators, he curated exhibitions in 1985 at the University of East Anglia and the Rochester Institute of Technology in the US, accompanied by the publication Fortune's America.
Family and Legacy
In 1968, Mullen married Oriole Kirkby, and together they had three children: Edie, Jack, and Sam. He is survived by his children and three grandchildren, Isla, Felix, and Anja. His passing marks the end of an era for art education, but his contributions through teaching, research, and his visual library continue to inspire future generations.
