Creativity vs. Innovation, Pleasure vs. Value

NORMALLY IF I HEARD ABOUT SOMEONE WHO WENT INTO A BATHROOM AND APPLIED TOILET PAPER TO THEIR HEAD I would think – as I suspect you would as well – “they’re not doing it right.”

But look at Nina Katchadourian’s Lavatory Self-Portraits in the Flemish Style and I think you’ll agree she was doing it right. Flush with inspiration in what has to be the world’s most confined studio, she created a series of images that amuse and impress and that also illustrate something really important about creativity: It’s supposed to be fun.

Click to read more ...

Randy Siegel's insight mannequin: The box doesn't have to be a box

INSTEAD OF “WHERE DO YOU GET YOUR IDEAS?” maybe we ought to be asking “Where do you put them?” The answers are bound to be fascinating if Randy Siegel’s “Insight Mannequin” is any indication. … According to one of Randy’s recent Facebook posts, whenever he gets an insight, he writes it on a sticky note and posts it to this mannequin in his den. Isn’t that cool?

Click to read more ...

Evaluating ideas: How hard is it to explain?

THERE’S A SAYING IN POLITICS: “IF YOU’RE EXPLAINING YOU’RE LOSING.” It’s true in the broader communications world too, and it makes for a great filter when evaluating creative ideas. … When a consumer sees your campaign, or a shopper bumps into your promotion, or a bookstore patron runs across your title, they won’t have read the research, consulted a briefing document, or been through all the brainstorm notes you’ve been through. The program, the display, the book — they all have to speak in the moment and be understood in an instant.

Click to read more ...