Welcome to the artistic world of Don Parker! This page serves as a gateway to three distinct yet interconnected websites that showcase my diverse creative endeavours.
Through my art, I explore the impact of technology and systems on society, linking my artistic practice with design thinking research at the University of Bristol
British landscapes: donparkerart.com
My art is a dialogue between tradition and innovation, beginning with AI as a muse to sketch the initial contours of Britain’s landscapes. This digital genesis evolves through layers of manipulation, collage, and acrylics, blending textures and narratives on canvas. The final compositions are then digitised, ensuring each print embodies both the original tactile essence and a modern aesthetic. This fusion of methods allows me to capture the landscapes’ moods and stories, offering viewers a new lens through which to experience the familiar.
Cinematic art and filmmaking: donparkerstudios.com
In my cinematic work, the creative process is a mix of traditional and digital mediums. Starting with AI-generated concepts, I sculpt these visions through digital manipulation, integrating collage elements and tactile mediums when the narrative demands. This approach not only bridges the gap between classic and contemporary filmmaking techniques but also enriches visual storytelling, making each frame a testament to both the timeless craft of cinema and the expansive potential of modern technology.
Immerse yourself in the world of cinematic art and filmmaking. This website delves into my exploration of visual storytelling, where I combine traditional methods with the power of technology to create captivating narratives that transport you to different worlds and emotions.
A collection + photography and academic work: donparker.co.uk
The diverse collection on donparker.co.uk is the product of the movement between analog and digital works. Beginning with a concept and then using over 3 decades of technologies (from early HTML, through digital design, and more recently, AI) to spark initial ideas. I transition through digital manipulation and physical media, creating works that challenge and blur the lines between photography, academic inquiry, and art. This multi-layered process reflects my commitment to exploring the confluence of art, technology, and intellectual discourse, inviting viewers into a space where each piece is a node in a broader conversation about creativity and innovation.
Discover a collection of my diverse artistic expressions, encompassing photography, academic work, and more. This website offers a glimpse into the broader spectrum of my creative journey, showcasing the versatility and depth of my artistic vision.
While each website focuses on a distinct subject matter, they are all united by a common thread: a passion for artistic exploration and a dedication to pushing the boundaries of creativity. I believe in the power of technology to enhance and expand traditional artistic methods, and I strive to use this synergy to create works that resonate with viewers on a deeper level.
I invite you to explore each of these websites and embark on a journey through the diverse landscapes of my artistic vision. Whether you are drawn to the evocative beauty of the British countryside, the immersive power of cinematic storytelling, or the multifaceted exploration of artistic expression, I hope you find something that resonates with you.
Thank you for your interest in my art!
Don Parker has a rich background as a designer and educator, with significant expertise in systems and design thinking. He achieved his doctorate in 2014, focusing on consumer behavior in advertising, and has held various academic positions, including a Visiting Professor of Advertising Design. His professional memberships include the Higher Education Academy, the Design Research Society, and the American Academy of Advertising. Parker’s solo exhibitions have spanned from film competitions to art installations addressing consumerism, while his group exhibitions include collaborations with Aardman Animation Studios. His work has been recognised in various publications and conferences globally, reflecting his contributions to advertising, design, and creative industries.
For more detailed information on Don Parker’s artistic background, philosophy, and recognitions, please refer to his official biography.
Academic and Professional Qualifications:
- A Study of the Macro to Micro Process of Persuasion for Advertising in Context Towards a Meso Dominant Logic Model of Consumer Behaviour (Doctorate (2014))
- Visiting Professor of Advertising Design
- School of Mass Communication, Shenzhen, China (2008)
- PGCE HE University of Wales, Newport (2006)
- BA (HONS) Design (Graphic Design), First Class with commendation in Design Research, Exeter College of Art and Design (1992)
Professional Bodies and Memberships:
- Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA)
- Member of the Design Research Society
- Member of the American Academy of Advertising
Research Expertise and Interests:
- Creative Industries
- Film and Television
- Moving Image
- Branding
- Design
- Communication
- Consumer Behaviour
Solo Exhibitions:
1998
- Raindance Festival, Soho, London.
‘Short’, Film in competition and in proceedings. Parker, D. 1998
2006 – 2007
- Newport School of Art, Media, and Design, University of Wales, Newport.
Just Undo It, Exhibition of 17 works as a commentary on consumerism. Parker, D. 2006
2007
- Break 2.4 Independent Artist Festival, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
‘Public Research Systems’.
Art installation / Documentary film.
Parker, D. 2007
2008
- Johnson & Johnson Headquarters, Lisbon, Portugal.
‘Madison Pierce’.
Art Intervention.
Parker, D.
2009
- Fflock Gallery, Newport School of Art, Media and Design, University of Wales, Newport, South Wales.
‘Commerce, Not Conspiracy’.
Exhibition of works as a commentary on consumerism with a series on presentations on propaganda techniques.
Parker, D. 2009
Group Exhibitions:
2008
- Aardman Animation Studios, Bristol, UK.1st International Exhibition.
2010
- Fflock Gallery, Newport School of Art, Media and Design,
University of Wales, Newport, South Wales.
‘Call Me, Things Change’,
Installation piece as part of a group exhibition.
Parker, D. 2010 (projector, telephone, board).
Publications:
2009
- Proceedings of the Newport NEXUS Conference Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching Special Publication, No. 1, 2009, pp. 175-197 ISBN 978-1-899274-38-3
‘How the correlation between artist and the corporation functions in relationship to advertising practice and strategy’ Parker, D.
2009
- New Clear Forms: American Poetry and Cold War Culture,
International 2-day conference, University of Glasgow, 11th and 12th September
Proceedings: ‘In what sense is Cold War an adjective?’
Parker, D & Morgan, C, 2009
2011
- Chinese Management Studies (CMS) Journal (Emerald: ISSN: 1750-614X). Special Edition. (pending), ‘The Art of War in Manufacturing Consumer Consent: Strategy, Business Culture and Ethics in Marketing Management.
McIntyre-Bhatty, Y T & Parker, D.
2011
- 1st International Colloquium on Global Design and Marketing
‘A conceptual model for future research at the Marketing / Design interface.’ Deacon, J., Parker, D., Harris, J.
Conference:
2008
- School of Mass Communication, Shenzhen, China.
10th June 2008
Presented paper entitled: “Developments in Advertising
Education”
School of Mass Communication, Shenzhen, China. - 12th June 2008
Presented paper entitled: “Developments in Advertising
Education”
Shenzhen Advertising Association, Shenzhen, China. - 12th June 2008
Presented paper entitled: “European Creative
Industries” Han Jiaying Design & Associates, Shenzhen, China. - 14th June 2008
Presented paper entitled: “Chinese and European approaches to brand positioning and Advertising design company structures ”Chen Design Studios, Shenzhen, China. - 17th June 2008
Presented paper entitled: “Chinese and European approaches to brand positioning and advertising design company structures”
2009
- May 2009
- Magdalena, the 10th International Festival of Creative Communication, Maribor, Slovenia at the request of the British Council.
Presented paper entitled: “The changing approach we have to brands and the exploration of our emotive response to products and corporations within the Advertising Design industry”.
11th and 12th September 2009
- New Clear Forms: American Poetry and Cold War Culture,International 2-day conference, University of Glasgow
Presented paper entitled:
‘In what sense is Cold War an adjective?’
Parker, D & Morgan, C, 2009
2011
- August 10th – 11th 2011
1st Global Chinese Management Studies Conference 2011, Singapore
Presentation; “The Art of War in Manufacturing Consumer Consent:
Strategy, Business Culture and Ethics in Marketing Management”.
McIntyre-Bhatty, Y T & Parker, D. 2011
- 8th and 9th December 2011
1st International Colloquium on Global Design and Marketing
Presentation: “A conceptual model for future research at the Marketing / Design interface.” Deacon, J., Parker, D., Harris, J.
Professional Activities:
2008
- Article: Shenzhen Daily, European and Chinese Design Convergence in association with Han Jiaying (Han Jiaying Design & Associates).
2009
- Public exhibition of moving image display for ‘Creative Capital’, University of Wales, Newport, National Event, Canary Wharf, London
- I trained in illustration and graphic design at Exeter College of Art and Design and have worked as a freelance multidisciplinary designer; including as an art director, commercials director and creative for clients such as;
Cartoon Network Channel
Boomerang Channel
Toonami European Channel
Columbia Pictures
UIP
Buena Vista International (Disney)
Eidos
National Film Theatre
Penguin Books
Universal Pictures
20th Century Fox
BBC Worldwide
Extreme Sports Channel
MTV Base
Classic FM:TV
Granada TV
Q8 Oil
Orange
WH Smith
The Royal Bank of Scotland
Philips Interactive Media
Virgin Games
Labworks
Shut Up and Dance Records
R&S Records
Junior Boys Own Records
Silva Screen Records
I have exhibited film and video installation work in;
- London
- Ljubljana
- Lisbon
A note about this site
I am constantly updating the site (2024) with over 25 years of work. I must apologise to all those co-workers, team members and friends past and present that I have not credited for their work. I will be correcting this as I go along. In the meantime, please let me know of any glaring omissions and I will update the work accordingly.
For now, thanks to:
- David Stoner
- Reynold Da Silva
- Simon Dyer
- Paul Mitchell
- Laverne Bailey
- Trish Kelly
- Andy Tulip
- Simon Smythe (we lost touch along the way, wish we hadn’t)
- Jerry Paris for the cool drawings
- Alex Potts for the cool drawings at Cartoon Network
- Woody, Bob, Robin, Henry, Jane, Nikki, and all at Cartoon Network
- A to Z Music
- Silva Screen
- Curio
- Feref
The photograph (above) was taken in the alley at the back of Denmark Street, London, and shows the building where the Sex Pistols rehearsed.