Trevor Brown

I’ve run my own design agency, worked freelance in a wide range of creative sectors, so I know what it takes to succeed in this industry. When I’m not teaching, I work as a professional musician.

My career has always been about exploring different creative worlds, whether graphic design, music, film or photography, and I enjoy bringing all of these experiences into my teaching. My specialisms include advertising, branding, campaign design, music artwork, book and editorial design, as well as critical and contextual studies and social impact design. 

I teach on the Graphic Design BA course here at UCB, with specific expertise in contextual studies, industry skills, software training and commercial projects. Freelancing across the creative sector has also given me hands-on experience in everything from graphics and photography to web design, sound, and music production. I’m also a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.

UCB is a fantastic place to teach and study graphic design, as it’s all about finding new ways to communicate and create change, and there’s no shortage of fresh perspectives here. Working in a city university also means that students have the opportunity to connect with local businesses and the wider creative community. There’s a real buzz in Birmingham, and the multicultural mix of students and staff makes it a fantastic place to grow as a designer.

I advise students on our Graphic Design course to be open to new experiences and to be prepared to step outside their comfort zone. It’s also important to be brave and bold in your thinking and creative choices. And one thing I want to make clear: AI won’t take your job! At least, as long as you keep learning, adapting, and pushing your creative boundaries.

Outside the classroom, I’m a singer, songwriter, and producer for my band, Call Me Zuko. Our music’s been played on radio stations and is available on Spotify. My favourite film is Memento by Christopher Nolan, and right now I’m reading Culture is not always popular by Michael Bierut.