Francesco Furno

Francesco Furno is an Associate Professor at IE University in Spain, teaching courses in Data Visualization, Graphic Design, and Communication and Digital Media. He is also the co-founder and art director of the acclaimed design studio Relajaelcoco (2008–Present), specializing in branding, visual identities, and editorial/infographic design. With a career spanning nearly two decades, he has collaborated with major clients like BBVA, Fairtrade International, and Cabify, while also teaching at IED Madrid and Barcelona (2012–2019) and directing a Master’s program in Editorial Design (2018–2020). His academic background includes a Degree in Economics (Università degli Studi del Sannio, Italy, 2007) and a Triennial Diploma in Graphic Design (IED Barcelona, 2009).

• Professional Roles: Co-founder/art director at Relajaelcoco; Writer for Brandemia.org and Retina Trends by El País.
• Teaching Focus: Divergent thinking strategies, creative mindset development, and practical skills in design and communication.
• Philosophy: Stresses the synergy between confidence, self-criticism, fresh perspectives, and work ethic.

Francesco’s grandfather and parents were teachers, making his academic career a continuation of family tradition. Outside academia, he experiments with molecular gastronomy and culinary techniques, often drawing parallels between design and cooking.