30/04/2026
Today we acknowledge with great sadness the loss of our much-loved friend and colleague, Emeritus Professor David Bell. Our staff have spent time today remembering his many "Davidisms" with laughter and tears. People have described David as a "work dad", mentor, friend, and teacher.
David's influence in the world of art education and initial teacher education runs long and deep, but we also remember him for the time he gave to people, and his brilliant capacity to relish each day. We are so grateful to have known, worked with and learnt from David. Thank you to the Aotearoa New Zealand Association of Art Educators for the beautiful tribute below.
E Pā, haere, haere, haere atu rā. Moe mai rā i te aroha me te rangimārie.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1AxpAfyAPD/
ANZAAE acknowledges, with deep sadness, the passing of Emeritus Professor David Bell, who died at his home on 29 April.
David’s contribution to visual arts education in Aotearoa New Zealand was profound and far-reaching. Over nearly five decades, he served as a teacher, Head of Department, teacher educator, advisor, researcher, and national leader in curriculum and assessment.
Beginning at Waimate High School in 1976, he later led Art at King’s High School before shaping generations of educators at the Dunedin College of Education. He was known for his generosity, mentorship, and thoughtful, detailed feedback that supported teachers across the sector.
David made significant contributions to visual arts assessment through his work with NZQA and the Ministry of Education. His academic career culminated in his appointment as Professor in 2018, alongside an extensive body of research.
A dedicated advocate for arts education, David was deeply involved in ANZAAE, serving as President and supporting conferences and publications. In 2021, he received ANZAAE’s Award for Sustained Leadership, Outstanding Service, and Contributions to Research, recognising a lifetime of impact.
Even in retirement, as Emeritus Professor, he remained active in teaching, research, and supporting others. David’s legacy lives on in the many teachers, students, and communities he influenced. Our thoughts are with his whānau, friends, and colleagues.
Kai te manu tutetute, kai te karu hòmiromiro rere atu rā ki te whare o te Pōhutukawa. Ko koe tēnā i whakapau kaha kia raranga i te tira ki ō whakaaro. David moe mai rā i tò moenga roa, rere atu ki te āhurutanga o ō tipuna.
- The ANZAAE team
