OWEN WADDINGTON
Lecturer – BA (Hons) Graphic Design, BA (Hons) Design & Digital Marketing
Qualifications:
MA Design
PGCHE
BA (HONS) Graphic Design
Owen’s practice centres on discovery and experimentation, often exploring emerging software and technologies through dialogue with industry and the development of new motion-based tools and outcomes. This approach has led to his work being exhibited both locally and internationally, most recently as part of a showcase celebrating 25 years of OFFF Festival in Barcelona. Passionate about accessibility and inclusive creative practice, Owen developed Motion Sketcher, a web-based tool that enables users to discover assets created by Owen and collaborators into new, moving compositions.
Before this, Owen worked with Newcastle-based Sail Creative, a brand-focused design studio known for its ethical and socially engaged approach. At Sail, he contributed to projects that combined bold visual storytelling with purpose-led strategy, collaborating with clients at the forefront of social and cultural change. His role involved developing creative solutions that were both impactful and inclusive, using design as a tool for advocacy and transformation. The studio placed a strong emphasis on values, collaboration, and community, creating space for meaningful partnerships and progressive narratives. During his time there, Sail was recognised in Creative Boom’s ‘Top 15 Greatest Places to Work’, a reflection of its innovative thinking, inclusive culture, and commitment to using design as a force for good.
Research Interests & Projects / Professional Activity / Publications/ Awards / Exhibitions / Media Coverage:
Interests include new software and technology within design, but also rethinking or thinking differently about what can be used or considered a design ‘tool’.
Selected Exhibition, Workshops and Publications (more available on request):
Exhibition: OFFF (Barcelona), 2025
Exhibition: Pineapple Black Summer Show 2024
Workshop: BALTIC – ‘Stand with Refugees’ 2022
Exhibition: WetDovetail (virtual space), ‘Rewriting’ 2021
Residency: Transient, ‘Exploring the Relation of Art & Technology’ 2021
Press: Design Calendar Nov. 2019 Issue – ‘Print Isn’t Dead’ 2019
Exhibition/Workshop: BALTIC 39 ‘Ways of Working’ 2019
Publication: ‘Graphics. Anti-Graphics.’, 2019
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