On any given day, we halt for stoplights, yield to passing cars and follow street signs. Every day, we follow the rules set forth by society.
This unconscious interaction between people and the built environment is what attracted Franc Nunoo-Quarcoo to the world of design and what ultimately brought him to the Penny W. Stamps School of Art & Design.
Originally an English and history major, Nunoo-Quarcoo, now professor of art and design, became engrossed with the storytelling narrative. His interest soon translated into a passion for visual storytelling.
Following graduate school at the Stamps School, his interest in people’s stories expanded to the way individuals interact with political candidates.
With a particular interest in presidential campaign symbols, Nunoo-Quarcoo calls President Obama’s iconic logo “modern in comparison with more traditional images.” He says the startlingly fresh design has changed the way the public interacts with political candidates and set a precedent for future politicians.
For example, Hillary Clinton’s simple symbol in the upcoming 2016 election features an “H” with an arrow through it, as if to indicate forward movement. The Clinton logo is direct and, most importantly, it is different, he says. “Hillary will stand out.”
Everything about an image is purposeful. Images are carefully crafted comments on consumerism and visual culture. Nunoo-Quarcoo explores these ideas with students in his Stamps course, Visual Identity & Branding.
“What kind of messages do you want to leave? Is it temporary? Is it long lasting? Are we willing to break the mold?”
The weekly Spotlight features faculty and staff members at the university. To nominate a candidate, email the Record staff at urecord@umich.edu.
Today, Nunoo-Quarcoo stays busy shaping young minds in class, mentoring graduate students, and directing student organizations dedicated to design and diversity. Furthermore, he often directs and designs exhibitions to supplement class work and student interest.
Along with colleague Steve Yalisove, professor of materials science and engineering in the College of Engineering, Nunoo-Quarcoo constantly strives to integrate Stamps and engineering students. He believes that collaboration between artists and engineers fosters a special setting for creative thinking and novel ideas.
An educator, designer and curator, Nunoo-Quarcoo is a perpetual learner, “working with” students rather than teaching them. He says he loves young people and deeply appreciates the opportunity to learn from them.
“As much as you think you’re teaching them (students), they’re teaching you.”
Q&A
What moment in the classroom stands out as the most memorable?
When a student is able to reframe a given question to generate an even more relevant question.
What can’t you live without?
Fairness.
What is your favorite spot on campus?
The kidney-shaped Kahn Auditorium attached to the Biomedical Sciences Research Building.
What inspires you?
Curiosity.
What are you currently reading?
I am reading two books:
1) “Chasing the Perfect: Thoughts on Modernist Design” by Natalia Ilyin.
2) “On Beauty and Being Just” by Elaine Scarry.
Who had the biggest/greatest influence on your career path?
Tom Strong, a visual communications designer in New Haven, Connecticut.
Kwasi Ampene
Professor Nunoo-Quarcoo is exceptional human being whose dedication to his students knows no bounds. As a colleague, he has supported my career here at UM with not only words of wisdom but also by actions. He designed to of my published books and in the process, he has opened my eyes to visual storytelling!