Dear Lee Clow.
Positivity and humility are the single most important characteristics of an incredible leader. Creative genius Lee Clow embodies both. And there's that cool, intelligent rebelliousness that makes him the icon he is. Recent news of him stepping aside from Media Arts Lab (grossly overstated as it may be) has made many reflect on some of his greatest hits for Apple. Flavorwire did a fab job with his best Apple spots: http://flavorwire.com/46956/lee-clow-tribute-top-10-apple-commercials .
Now, I don't know Lee Clow, I've never worked for him, but that doesn't take away from my almost giddy school-girl enthusiasm for him and his work. Whether it's Fast Company, Creativity Magazine, NY Times, or Alex Bogusky himself (http://post.ly/45kX), there seems to be a consensus of absolute admiration for the man and his work. It's not only arguably some of the BEST creative work of all time, but there's always an element of truth and honesty that comes through in the work that's rarely seen.
I had the opportunity to see Art & Copy recently and get a bit of a glimpse into his world. His gentle, kind, yet brutally honest ways are a sight to behold. The kind of honesty that can break a young person in advertising down to tears-but GOOD tears! Honesty is not always easy. But the encouragement to always do the right thing and be a better person sounds out loud and clear.
Looking at his brands, they are some of the best case studies of what brands want to be. Simple. Honest. Genuine. Whether it's a behemoth like Apple or Pedigree's incredible brand character and voice, they speak so beautifully. Yes, "Otis"is my favorite print ad of all time. For a minute I'll turn the tables on myself...I love the ad because it speaks to me. It doesn't talk down to me like so many ads do. It invites me to make the world a bit better. And tells a delicate story through the tear glistened eyes of a pug. Sentimentality aside, it's a brilliant communication.
