I’m a big beliver in the more you do the more you can do. Look at Alex Bogusky–diet book author, bicyclist and transportation activist. Wieden + Kennedy partner, John Jay, is another ad industry mogul who finds time for other meaningful pursuits.
Recently Jay had some interesting things to say about creativity in the digital age and the need for doers.
The new democracy of creativity offered by technology has unleashed a wonderful spirit of self-expression, young people can make their ideas become a reality without the barriers of corporations and institutions…
However, it also dramatizes the need, more than ever, for strong leadership as we yearn for the visionary with cultural acuity. In this global sea of opinion and ideas; the art of craft, uniqueness and originality fueled by a passionate personal point of view is paramount. It is time for all creative people to step up their game. Being truly “creative” today demands a greater depth and breadth of skills.
…the ability to make something of the highest quality and originality takes talent and a passionate devotion to the skills of “making”. Having the ability to execute, to make an idea into reality changes your thinking, concepting power and approach to ideas. This skill is what separates the truly creative and those with ideas. It doesn’t matter if we are dealing with old media or new media…skill and talent still rules.
Jay, a man of skill and talent, is all about the action. In addition to his W+K duties, the 60-year old is hell bent on revitalizing Portland’s Chinatown neighborhood. Read this extensive Q+A from The Oregonian to learn all about his plans and what he’s already doing in this important downtown district.
One big thing Jay and his wife are doing is Ping, a new restaurant in partnership with Pok Pok chef Andy Ricker. I love in the Q+A when, in reference to Ping’s opening, the reporter rhetorically says Jay must not need the money. Jay’s response is perfect. “Excuse me, I need as much money as I can get!”
