New Directors at the AOI
The AOI are delighted to announce the appointment of two new Directors and a Legal Advisor to the AOI’s Board.
Rachel Gannon and Rachel Hill will be joining the Board as Directors. We are also pleased to introduce a new role of Legal Advisor, which has been appointed to Gabriella Playford.
Rachel Gannon is an illustrator, educator, researcher and currently Associate Professor and Acting Head of School of Design at Kingston University. She is interested in illustration disciplinary research methodologies and their potential for inter- and trans- disciplinary application, which culminated in the text Illustration Research Methods (2021, Bloomsbury Academic) which she co-authored with Dr Mireille Fauchon.
Rachel’s practice as an educator and researcher is informed by a successful 18-year professional illustration career and her articles and practice-based works have been published in the leading research and professional publications in this subject area.
It’s a privilege to be on the board of directors for the AOI. As an educator and illustrator, I know the immense value that AOI brings to our community. The support they provide to countless graduates in those important months post university is worthy of a particular mention. I very much look forward to using my knowledge and experience working in higher education at varying levels and settings over the last 20 years to positively contribute to the future direction of the AOI.
Rachel Gannon
Rachel Hill is the current CEO of the Association of Illustrators. She has had a significant impact in her two years leading the organisation, growing initiatives such as the mentorship program, the World Illustration Awards, and advocacy work around AI. Prior to becoming CEO, Rachel also held the role of the AOI’s Membership Director, delivering an excellent service to members, especially during the challenging pandemic period.
With an in-depth understanding of the organisation and a deep passion for supporting the illustration community, Rachel is well positioned to drive the AOI’s mission forward in her new position as board director.
I’m thrilled to join the AOI board of directors, collaborating with other passionate leaders to advocate for the illustration community. I’m eager to contribute my insights and experience to support the AOI in adapting to a constantly evolving industry. Our organisation is in a strong position, and our purpose is clear – to celebrate, protect, and support the growth of the illustration industry, and to empower individuals to build thriving, sustainable careers.
Rachel Hill
Gabriella Playford has been appointed as the Legal Advisor to the Board of Directors.
Gabriella is a Senior Associate at Sheridans, where she advises clients on a wide range of
intellectual property and commercial aspects of the development, commissioning, and production of digital content across all media channels, including intellectual property rights protection and exploitation, commercial contracts, and strategic partnerships. Gabriella has a particular expertise in illustration, character design and animation.
Gabriella advises various industry bodies in relation to best practices such as the Advertising Producers Association and the Association of Illustrators in relation to animation and VFX production.
I am delighted to be appointed as Legal Advisor to the Board of Directors of the AOI. As a commercial/intellectual property lawyer at the media and entertainment law firm, Sheridans, I have worked with the AOI for many years and I also advise artists, agents, production companies and agencies on how to protect and exploit intellectual property in the creative industries. My particular expertise in illustration and illustration led animation means I am committed to supporting the Board, the AOI and its members.
Gabriella Playford
About The AOI:
The Association of Illustrators (AOI) is the leading illustration body supporting and sustaining illustrators and the illustration industry based in the UK with a global membership. Established in 1973 the AOI offers members professional advice, online resources, and a growing programme of events. The AOI has successfully worked to increase the standing of illustration as a profession and improve commercial and ethical conditions. With a membership that includes freelance illustrators, agents, students, and colleges the AOI continues to support and educate future generations at every stage of their career.
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