Ian Whadcock

Ian Whadcock FHEA is an Senior Lecturer and Education Lead for Design at Manchester School of Art, Manchester Metropolitan University. Promoted to Reader in Design (EPC) in 2023, he teaches on BA Illustration with Animation and MA/MFA programs. His leadership roles include Design Leadership Group membership and coordination of national design showcases at New Designers (2016–2022). He co-supervises Design PhD candidates and contributed to MMU’s successful REF 2021 submission through the Design Research Hub.

Research focuses on design education futures, illustration’s role in cultural analysis, and cinematic storytelling. Notable projects include the Bradford Pit Memorial (IASDR 2019) and collaborations with RHS Bridgewater Gardens. Exhibitions include the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition and AOI Illustration Awards. He actively engages with institutions like the Design Council and Creative Conscience Awards.

Awards: AOI 2013 Awards finalist, Royal Academy Summer Exhibition inclusion, and multiple international exhibitions. Leadership: Spearheaded employability initiatives and international recruitment in Seoul. Community: Member of Association of Illustrators and contributor to Pathways into Publishing (Arts Council).

Key projects span cross-disciplinary collaborations, including the London Road Fire Station project and V&A/PHM Poster Workshop. His work bridges academic research with public engagement through exhibitions, publications, and design advocacy roles.