ees willing to use public transportation or bikes for commuting. Employees wouldn’t have been so responsive to Eco Freako if it hadn’t been created with the integrity and seriousness of a real world campaign. 5. What is your advice for aspiring creatives? You have to put in your dues. Find a good school that is serious about training designers and creative people, and immerse yourself completely. If you aren’t getting punished with an overwhelming number of projects, sleepless nights and crushing critiques, look elsewhere. And 2 years is not enough. There is too much history to be learned and basic skills to be honed. I originally thought an associates degree would be fine. I ended up going back for 4 more years after that. There is a huge difference. Also, don’t underestimate community and networking. Every person you meet is important. Treat them with respect and form freindships when possible. You never know where someone else may end up on their journey, and how you might help each other succeed in your careers or life. Finally, make sure to keep your other interests and passions well fed. These will give you a break from the creative process and refuel your soul. For me it’s fly-fishing, backpacking, camping, snowboarding and Faith that keep me going. 6. Personal motto? I don’t really have one developed yet that wouldn’t make you laugh and say «Yeah right, what a bunch of bs!» I guess what comes to mind is what my Mother always told me when i was struggling through design school. «Take one day at a time and do your very best. That’s all you can do.» -Mom Maybe more pertinent to this article is our Eco Freako Credo developed by a brilliant copywriter and co-worker of mine, Julie Feyerer. It goes something like this... “We, the newly greenified people of FAME, do heretofore solemnly swear to do our part for the earth and all of Omnicom-kind. We will actually read the trash/recycling bin labels and use the right ones. We will place all dead documents into the appropriate receptacle, ensuring safe delivery to their peaceful place in Shredder Heaven. We will think of Green as a guiding principle. Not just a bunch of PMS numbers.
featuring*
*fea-tur-ing [fee-cher-ing]: a) giving special attention to; b) including as a prominent part.
We will ink responsibly (i.e. print in moderation). We will switch off our computers and tuck them in for the night (story optional). We will remember Off is the new On when it comes to lights. We will use the ecofriendly cleaning products provided, and not simply comment on the package design. We will carry our caffeinated beverage of choice in an “I (heart) Clients” mug or something else entirely washable, re-usable— and of course, refillable. And finally, we will shoot disapproving looks in the general direction of all non-conformers. Infractions are punishable by 50 lashes with a rolled up sheet of cover stock containing 5% post-consumer material.”
Name: Sam Soulek Website: www.soulseven.com Email: sam@soulseven.com
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