Former UMO Professor Returns to Campus to Share Journey as Author and Illustrator
April 8, 2026
Contact: Rhonda Jessup, Director of Public Relations
MOUNT OLIVE – The University of Mount Olive welcomed back former professor Dr. Daniel Gall for a recent presentation that blended art, storytelling, and professional insight, offering students a firsthand look at the creative and publishing process behind his illustrated book.
Hosted in a digital illustration class, the presentation introduced students to Gall’s evolution from a longtime faculty member in Earth and Environmental Sciences to an independent author and illustrator. Gall, who taught at Mount Olive College from 2002 to 2012, shared how retirement opened the door to a new creative chapter centered on writing and visual storytelling.
Gall’s presentation focused on his book, The Tree-Told Tales – A Fall-Line Forest’s Favorite Fables, a collection of fables inspired by nature, personal experience, and the tradition of illuminated manuscripts. Drawing from historical influences, he explained how ancient manuscript design shaped both the structure and visual elements of his work, including full-page watercolor illustrations and stylized chapter openings.
Throughout the session, Gall explored the relationship between illustration and narrative, challenging students to consider whether illustrations function as art or craft. He described his approach of illustrating what he calls the “foundation sentence” of each chapter, the central idea that anchors the story, allowing readers to both see and interpret the narrative through imagery.
Students also gained practical insight into the technical side of publishing. Gall outlined the time-intensive nature of creating original illustrations, noting that each watercolor piece required careful planning, sketching, painting, and inking, with the full project taking more than a year to complete.
Beyond the creative process, Gall emphasized the importance of maintaining ownership and control in publishing. He shared his experience working as an independent author, discussing copyrights, ISBN registration, formatting decisions, and the role of publishing consultants. His message encouraged students to approach creative work with both artistic vision and business awareness.
“Life begins at retirement,” Gall told students, reflecting on his decision to pursue illustration and writing after his academic career.
The presentation provided a unique interdisciplinary experience, connecting art, literature, and entrepreneurship while reinforcing the value of lifelong learning. Students left with a deeper understanding of how creative ideas move from concept to finished publication and the many decisions required along the way.
The University of Mount Olive is a private institution rooted in the liberal arts tradition with defining Christian values. The University was founded by the Convention of Original Free Will Baptists. For more information, visit www.umo.edu.
