Cambridge School of Visual & Performing Arts (CSVPA) is delighted to announce the appointment of internationally renowned art director, designer and photographer Martin Andersen as Course Leader for its BA Communications Design programmes.
Martin will lead the institution’s undergraduate pathways in BA (Hons) Graphic Design, BA (Hons) Illustration, and BA (Hons) Visual Communications, bringing with him more than 20 years of experience across both the creative industries and higher education.
His appointment further strengthens CSVPA’s commitment to delivering industry-informed education, enabling students to benefit from the expertise of practising creative professionals while developing the skills, knowledge and experience needed to succeed in today’s competitive design landscape.
A graduate of the prestigious Royal College of Art, Martin began his career working alongside celebrated graphic designer Vaughan Oliver at v23 before establishing his own award-winning studio, Andersen M. Over the course of his career, his work has been recognised with more than 20 international awards, including two Gold Lions at Cannes and three CLIO Awards for his acclaimed stop-frame animation Going West.
Alongside his professional practice, Martin continues to exhibit internationally. Most recently, his collaborative exhibition OK OKAPI, created with designer Chris Bigg, opened at Pocko Gallery in Tokyo following its successful debut in London.
Martin’s career spans graphic design, photography, film and animation, with projects including work for Channel 4, Discovery Channel and ITV, as well as music videos and internationally exhibited photographic work. His multidisciplinary approach aligns closely with the evolving nature of today’s creative industries, where designers are increasingly required to work across multiple disciplines and platforms.
His academic experience is equally impressive, having held teaching positions at Central Saint Martins and the University of Brighton, where he taught across graphic design, illustration, animation, fashion styling and filmmaking programmes.
Commenting on his appointment, Martin Andersen said:
“Creativity comes from being curious, taking risks and being willing to move beyond the boundaries of a single discipline. My own career has always moved between different creative fields, and I want our students to have the confidence to explore, experiment and develop a distinctive visual language of their own.
“As creative industries continue to change, it’s more important than ever that students gain experience of how the industry works alongside their academic development. I look forward to helping our undergraduate students develop the creative thinking, practical experience and confidence they need as they move into their professional careers.”
Professor Karin Askham, Rector for CSVPA, added:
“Martin Andersen’s appointment marks an exciting step forward for our BA Communication Design programmes. His extensive experience across both professional practice and higher education will provide our students with exceptional insight into the realities of today’s design industries. At CSVPA, we are committed to combining academic excellence with industry relevance, and Martin’s knowledge, leadership and creative vision will play a key role in ensuring our students graduate with the confidence, skills and adaptability required to succeed as the next generation of design professionals.”
Martin’s appointment reflects CSVPA’s commitment to providing students with an education shaped by active industry practitioners. Across our Art & Design programmes, students are taught by faculty who continue to work as artists, designers, researchers and creative professionals, ensuring teaching remains closely connected to contemporary practice and the realities of today’s creative industries.
As Course Leader, Martin will play a key role in guiding students as they develop their creative identities, build professional portfolios and prepare for successful careers in graphic design, illustration, visual communications and related creative fields.
With his unique combination of professional achievement, teaching excellence and interdisciplinary creative practice, Martin brings a wealth of expertise that will inspire and empower the next generation of creative talent at CSVPA.
