Out of a list of possible career paths, which would you choose? Here are your options: A. CEO of a public relations firm; B. Beloved pastor; C. Published author; D. International speaker; E. Award-winning artist.
Well, if you are Nolan W. McCants, you would select “all of the above” and you would do them well. Nolan began to develop his talents at an early age: by the time he was 18, he owned his own full service P. R. firm and represented clients from Fortune 50 companies, nonprofit agencies, and the entertainment field.
In 1990, the U.S. Small Business Administration recognized his achievement by naming him Illinois’ Young Entrepreneur of the Year. Additionally, Nolan founded the Harvest Church, Plainfield, Illinois, where he serves as pastor. Nolan has authored several books that further his message of empowerment and spirituality and is known around the world as a motivational leader and speaker.
He communicates effectively through non-verbal channels, as well. Using a camera lens to capture evocative imagery, Nolan presents cultures and concepts that seductively invite the viewer to discover the “exceptional in the ordinary.”
His photographs, on display now at Oesterle Library at North Central College, embody the human spirit: strong, resilient, and proud. Nolan states, “To have the capacity to communicate my unique perspective and cause others to appreciate the great expanse of life and living is simply astounding. As the world grows smaller, my images will serve to introduce all to the beauty and diversity of our global neighbors.”
Still, in an odd way, it sometimes feels that the subjects of Nolan’s images appear to be more like us than unlike us. Whether they are from Nigeria, Cameroon, Jamaica, or Haiti, the men, women, children, families, and friends serving as focal points are living in a state of commonality as they play, work, laugh, and love. A second look triggers the realization that there are many layers to Nolan’s work. And woven throughout those layers are threads of compassion, intimacy, and respect for the ethnic values of those caught in a moment.
The Work of Nolan W. McCants is on display through April 3.
Oesterle Library Gallery
North Central College
320 East School Street
Naperville, IL 60540
