Amarillo College Ranger

Issue date: 12/3/04 Section: Features

Media Credit: Candice Randolph

Art Professor Bill Burrell leads a life of innovation and dedication to teaching and family.

For 22 years, Burrell has served Amarillo College. He taught graphic design for 14 years before switching over to drawing, painting and design, Burrell said.

"I enjoyed graphics, but this was my first choice," he said.

Ken Pirtle, a professor and chairman of the visual arts department, agrees.

"In my opinion, he enjoyed the change," Pirtle said. "He started our commercial art program, which became our graphic design program."

New technologies do not scare Burrell. "I'm designing an online design fundamental course to be offered in the spring semester," he said. "It's fun. I'm realizing how much I can communicate."

In addition to designing new courses, Burrell still is fully involved with teaching.

"Currently I teach four studio courses per semester," he said. In the spring, he plans on four studio courses plus his new online fundamental course, he said.

"He is well-educated and communicates well," said Dennis Olson, an assistant professor of art. "He is innovative in his teaching strategies and conveys that to his students."

Burrell said, "I enjoy teaching to students with no background in art and helping them develop."

For students with an art background, Burrell said, "I like to suspend what they already know and open their minds to learn something new."

He enjoys contributing to the love of art. "Seeing students develop an appreciation is the best part of my job," he said.

Student feedback is all respect and appreciation for Burrell's involvement with the school, Pirtle said.

Olson said, "The relative quality of work his students produce tangibly reflects his ability as a teacher."

But teaching is not the only thing that keeps Burrell busy.

He has been married 43 years to his wife, Linda. They have raised four children, three of whom attended AC, he said.

"All four of my children live in the Amarillo/Canyon area," he said, which means easy access to all 12 grandchildren.

"His family is an important aspect of his life," Olson said.

"He is a very good family man," Pirtle added. "I believe it comes from his religious background and his current faith."

On top of teaching and family life, Burrell still finds time to enjoy what he loves to do.

"I'm still a practicing and exhibiting artist," he said.

He participates in local and non-local events, he said. Locally, he exhibits in invitational art shows, but in other locations he enters competitive exhibitions with a jury, he said.

"I have been in 50 to 60 shows or exhibitions," Burrell said. "For me, it is less about competition and more about people seeing my work."

His advice to students reflects his dedication and love for art. "If you can't have fun, then there is no point in doing it," he said. "It is very important to love what you do."

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