Design in Europe
Tim McNeil
Design
Tim McNeil is a Professor in the Department of Design at the University of California Davis and Director of the UC Davis Design Museum. His research and teaching explore the exhibition space as a medium for the effective communication of objects, information, and narratives. He has over 30 years of professional, firstly experience as a senior designer at the J. Paul Getty Museum, and then as a principal of his own design firm, developing over 200 exhibition and interpretive environments. Tim has an MFA in exhibition design from University of the Arts, London, and a BA in graphic design from Middlesex University. His award-winning work is featured in multiple publications, and he is a frequent writer and speaker both nationally and internationally on museum and design issues. His latest book is called “The Exhibition and Experience Design Handbook.”.
A Message to Students and Parents
European countries are bursting at the seams with history and design. Join me on a journey through Iceland and Great Britain for an unparalleled insight into countries famous for their design tradition as well as their design innovation.
We will stay in cities that are packed with historical firsts, great museums, stunning landscapes, impressive architecture and forward-thinking design. Starting in the rugged and remote Icelandic capital Reykjavik, a relative newcomer to design but far ahead when it comes to environmental sustainability. Next to the vibrant cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh where I was born and where industrious meets innovation. Then to the picturesque northern English city of York where I grew up, a place so steeped in history it is the ultimate museum without walls. Finally, traveling to the global and trend-setting London where I completed my education at the prestigious St Martins College of Art and Design and worked professionally as a designer. Design is in the bones of each of these destinations and integrated in unique ways into life and culture. I’ve visited many parts of the world and if I had one word of advice it would be to travel. Exposure to new cultures, meeting people and being visually inspired is particularly relevant for those students interested in the creative fields. Through field trips, behind-the-scenes museum visits, lectures and studio projects, this program examines the expanded role of the designer as an inventor and protagonist, a communicator of information and a shaper of place.
I have been practicing design professionally for over 30 years, teaching design for over 15 years, and led a version of this program for 13 years. I bring a wealth of experience to bear on a study abroad adventure that is as rewarding academically as it is fun. I guarantee students will return changed people, and if I’ve done my job right, ready for a lifetime of further international exploration.”