Pristine Illuminaton

2009-02-23T08:56:00.000-08:00

Hey, I have a new updated blog that can be found here. But while your here feel free to look at my new portfolio!

2008-10-17T16:02:00.000-07:00

There are thirty thousand students at Tech and about 3 percent of those are African American students who enter into a university system that makes them feel like their one of ten. So naturally we cling to the people whom we feel most comfortable and as a results that’s a big part of the reason as to why the student union at 12pm looks strikingly like an HBCU cafeteria. Now, I have always cherished my college experience and always said that I wouldn’t change it for the world. But I have realized that at a school like Tech I was perhaps one of the few black students who harvested an affection and affinity for the university itself outside of just affection for other students. This is probably due to my involvement with orientation recruitment and interacting with the school on a more personal level than most black students. But even with that, I can’t help but wonder what my experience would have been like if I went to an HBCU.

I’ve always had strong opinions on what HBCU's offer students and how significant the “Black Experience” is in the overall scheme of things. I never understood quite how attending an all black university was a good preparation for integrating into the actuality of a predominantly white corporate America. Sure, you might feel more comfortable in school surrounded by people who look and think like you, but what about when you graduate?

And secondly isn’t going to a fairly large white school statistically like attending an HBCU within a large university. Just looking at the numbers, most HBCU ‘s have a total enrollment range of around 2000 – 5000 students, which is statistically similar to the black population within a predominantly white school. Sure, they might be dispersed throughout a larger white population but if anything this experience is much more aligned with the professional culture presented in the real world after graduation.

I’ve recently had the opportunity to spend some time on some HBCU campuses here on the east coast and have gotten a small glimpse into the black experience. Now as a strategist I’m naturally curious in how people interact within different environments but I must admit that the allure of historically black universities garner their own sense of intrigue and appeal. As an outsider looking in I’ve always known there were cultural differences you forfeit when attending a traditional predominantly white university. Most notably in the marching bands, homecoming events, parties, the prolific Greek life, step-shows, and family traditions. True, most of these you can attain on a smaller scale at traditional universities but not nearly in comparison of the authenticity and intensity of an HBCU.

But after spending a couple a days on yard at Hampton University I realized that those things although important, were a lot less significant in the true nature of the black experience. Now I only had a couple of days to immerse myself into the HBCU collegiate life but I think the real equity of the university lies in the character of the students who attend HBCU’s. Students who flourish at an institution that allows young African American students to develop personality and character in an environment that’s tailored toward their needs.

I can’t speak for all universities but in terms of those that I have attended it seems as if the black population’s creativity and desire to express themselves is somewhat suppressed in larger predominantly white universities. Now, whether that’s due to a slight intimidation factor as a result of disproportionate representation in the classroom, I don’t know. But in any case, it just seems as if black students don’t receive the same level of expressive encouragement as they would receive in an all black classroom.

And I think it’s that very fabric of encouragement that allows students to interact so freely in the classroom and on campus. Fostering a spirit of enthusiasm in which gives HBCU's the reputation for harvesting students that are more naturally outgoing and outspoken about what’s happening on their campus as well as in the community.

I was fortunate enough to attend North Carolinas A&T homecoming last week and outside of the band, festivities and step show it was much like Tech’s homecoming just in a different fashion. But the one thing that really set it apart was the intrinsic adoration for the schools traditions and legacy held within the hearts of the students. Perhaps the best way I can I paint this picture would be in the actions of a grandmother I meet on campus. She was proudly proclaiming her allegiance to A&T in her ornately decorated vintage A&T sweater. She was escorting her daughter an A&T alumni and granddaughter a current student through a tour of the campus as it was when she attended. honestly, I don’t think that I’ve seen anything as beautiful as the pride of a family who has fulfilled the legacy of a third generation student.

I think that’s where the real turning point lies in the black experience discussion. There are a lot of factors that go into deciding which school you should attend but in terms of pride, what university can match this level of tradition and pride to an incoming black students like an HBCU can.

I can’t say that my overall perception of the black experience has changed because honestly it does come back to that same cliché’ answerer you always hear “ It depends on the individual”. But I will say this, I think the purpose of a college education has shifted among middle class Americans, black and white. Thirty years ago I would argue that college was about attaining a degree and getting a decent job. It was the gateway into living a comfortable life; it was all about the American dream. Now days, I think college is more about the experience. It’s about the people you meet, the experiences you have, and opening yourself up to more than what’s going on in your world. And at least in that respect I can see why HBCU Alumnus are so adamant about the black experience.

Hampton University : The graduates Crossing Ogden Circle. A graduation night tradition for graduating seniors.

This Maze and Frankie Beverly joint had everybody SANGIN!!!

North Carolina A&T Drum-line and Step show:

The Omega's put it down but didn't win.

Road Trip Fun!

2008-07-13T23:57:00.000-07:00

It normally takes something quite special to inspire me enough to actually roll myself to the computer and write about it. Normally it’s an idea or concept that pushes the boundaries of creative thinking or something that is intuitively thought provoking. Something along the lines of that feeling you get when you hear your favorite song for the first time, not realizing how much you appreciate it until an hour later when your frantically trying to conjure up the lyrics over a discordant melody that you have somehow managed to hold onto within your head. They don’t happen to often but I definitely got that itch to write after my encounter with an LA artist by the name of MR. Brain Wash (MBW). No, I didn’t actually get the opportunity to meet the mastermind himself but his art exhibit off Sunset and Vine, spoke volumes about the heart of this artist and the way he thinks.

Fist off, the exhibit itself was something to see but the venue and the atmosphere in which it was hosted was truly phenomenal. Every aspect of the showing served as an intricate part of this incredible experience. In fact the venue at times seemed to merge into the art that was on display. Mr. brain Wash had covered every inch of the 1500 foot warehouse with his own artistic signature. The quality and detail behind the work that was inscribed upon the walls and floor was every bit as inspiring and ornate as the hand signed pieces hanging on display. After about ten minuets I came to realize that this was not just another artist trying to do something different just to be different but rather here was a guy who exhausted every opportunity to express himself. The floors, the ceiling, the walls, all were part of his blank canvas in which he used to complement the message in his pieces. I remember thinking to myself here was someone who had created a three -dimensional interactive medium to tall his story. It was the venue in its entirety that was the exhibit, not just the work on the walls. From The larger than life instillations that prominently dwarfed the buildings entrance to the melodic rhythms being blasted from the second story dj booth, every aspect of experience was in its own way, a small piece of the story being told in this exhibit.

The majority of his work is a unique perspective on classic art pieces familiar within the impressionism period, interrupted by intrusive anachronistic twenty first century pop culture. Often times the pieces are fully replicated to their original state by hand (an accomplishment in itself) only to be slightly enhanced or decimated, depending on your personal opinion, by his own creative interpretation. One of my favorite pieces is a classic remake of Alfred Sisley’s Boulevard Heloise, Argenteuil. Originally painted with visible brush strokes and etchings illustrating a fairly abstract french city street MBW has provided the addition of the slightly invasive florescent orange LA city bus. An eye sore aesthetically speaking but to those who have had the displeasure of encountering LA’s public transportation it brings about an inevitable smile and a reluctant sense of appreciation.

The exhibition gave proof that Andy Warhol was one of his more respected artist as a number of his more prominently displayed pieces where a unique take on some of Warhol’s most beloved work. His classic print of the Campbell’s soup can as well as his pop art depiction of Marilyn Monroe both lent themselves as inspiration for a series of pieces in which Mr. Brain Wash has used to help brand his style.

His work is aesthetically beautiful but the real message in his work is in his relevance to today’s culture. Boldly exploring abstract concepts like truth and equality for a generation looking into a translucent future. Obama, Clinton, and McCain find their ways into a series of images focused on the subtle message of hope. One of his more powerful works is an untitled piece of Dr. King and Malcolm X examining the audacity of following your dreams.

Well, perhaps if I wear a poet at heart I would be able to fully describe the surreal experience of interacting within Mr. Brain Wash’s vision, but such is the irony of good art. It speaks to your heart, touches your soul, and not only inspires and moves you but beseeches you to share it with the world. And yet even with all that, you know the only way to truly pass on the experience is to see it in person. Unfortunately I can’t quit give you all that but here’s the next best thing… enjoy the pics.

Artshow2008.com

2008-05-19T17:45:00.000-07:00

What do we call a world that plays your kind of music all day everyday? A place that repeats, shuffles, and mixes music, information, and pictures in the exact synchronization
of your hearts desire? A dream world right! Well its more like the the iPod world. Unfortunate realm and state of existence where people have become isolated from one another all under the guise of -demand music. To the music enthusiast its perhaps the best invention known to man and who could argue with that. Who wouldn’t want to get their hands on a brand new iPod Touch? I mean it’s practically the Minimus Prime version of a Macbook. But even in all of its glory there is yet a dark side to the iPod which often serves as an 8 gb multi-colored “do not disturb” visual queue to the outside world.

Undoubtedly, were all guilty of practicing in a form of musical isolationism, some more intentionally than others but that’s not always our intent. Sometimes you just want to rock out to the lyrical genius of Andre 3000 or to the smooth sounds of the Temptations rather than talking about microeconomic MPC curves on your bus ride to class. But the truth of the matter is that when unoccupied time is presented were more likely to start reaching for pods than strike up a convo. So has our society really gotten to the point that we have reduced ourselves to zombie like machines minimizing the need for human interaction? Although It may seem that way, I think not, or at least not all the time!

So, for those Ipod conspirators out there get ready to put on your game faces because that just might be the anti-pod cure to our self-indulged isolationism attitudes. Wire Magazine proclaimed Alpha Geek, Jury Hahn, is aiming to bring the sexy of human interaction back into the fabric of our culture and her medium for her cause is mobile phone gaming. But were not talking about the marvel of watching pinky chasing Ms. Pac man around on your Blackberry, oh no. Hahn dreamed up an idea of multiplayer cell phone games where people can interact with rivals and battle them on screen.

Here’s the low down, players can dial a special phone number shown on a public screen and the system will link them into to the system complete with their own personal avatar which is then identified with the users last four digits of their cell phone number. Participants are then able to compete in the mini games by using their keypad or by speaking directly into their devices.

So you want to size up the competition, well all you have to do is look around you and see what other jesters are yelling into their phones as they anxiously parade in front of the screen. Imagine while your waiting in line for Broadway tickets in the middle of Times Square you find yourself indulged in a two hundred person dodge ball game on the jumbotron in front of you. How’s that for social interaction!

Will it work… well I don’t think Hahn’s goal is to necessary lead the Anti Pod revolution but rather explore a new twist on an old form of media. Sure the interactions and communication capabilities are fascinating but under all that it’s just a great financial idea. If they are able to develop the platform without any kinks than the advertising sponsors will come. Speaking to consumers on the go and truly reaching them while their engaged in an activity is like the Holy Grail for advertisers.

When not occupied people want to interact with each other it’s an intrinsic behavior built into our beings. A good example is that episode of the Office when the gang watches the DVD screen savor screen to see if the DVD logo that bounces around the screen haphazardly would ever fall directly in the bottom left hand corner! In the midst of a Michael Scott meeting they had to find something to occupy their time? Lets face it we all hate waiting in lines and what’s even worse we have all becoming quit proficient at pretending to address some pretentious matter on our cell phone. …After all you can only fiddle around on your cell phones for so long before people realize your pretending is a lot like the person behind you. You know the person you just called out in your head for being a busy body poser! So why not pop those pods out of our ears and put our game faces on. And who knows in the midst of all the excitement it may even spark the in-thinkable...a conversation!

2008-04-07T23:11:00.000-07:00

Mais C´e´tait une expe´rience

In the chaos of my life in which I affectionately call “The Brandcenter” I managed to squeeze in the time to watch the movie Six Degrees of Separation. I must admit I was more intrigued with the concept of unifying the world through a theory of mathematics and probability then I was with the actual story line, but as the film ended I found myself captivated by Stockard Channing's closing performance. Her closing monologue was delivered with such passion and emotion, it was breathtaking. I’ve heard her performance of the Broadway rendition was absolutely exceptional and judging from her showing on screen I can see why she is regarded as one of the top thespians of our time.

But it was here that lied the most memorable part of the movie, Channing’s closing plight. The fact that she loathes the idea of turning our lives into some sort of anecdote. She questions how do we keep the experiences of life? How do we keep what happens to use and how do we fit it into our lives without turning them into anecdotes?

As I listened to her deliver that final soliloquy I wondered if I too would take this time, this chaotic period of graduate school, and turn it into an anecdote. I wondered as time went by would I eventually lose the essences of this experience? The late nights, the euphoric sense of creative freedom, and the mass hysteria that characterized the week before a project was due? Would theses memories eventually slip through the cracks of my mind and be replaced with a generic “ We had some crazy times in grad school” anecdote?

Honestly, I don’t know. But what I do is that this period has been the most fascinating time of my life and yet, somehow I feel that it too will eventually become a distant memory. Just a quick story I’ll use to relate with friends over a diner party or as an opening for polite conversation among strangers. But Channing was right, our lives are more than just anecdotes their experiences.

So, how do we hold onto our experiences? I haven’t quit figured that out yet. But in searching for a clip to include with this post I stumbled upon one of the best responses I’ve heard thus far, and though it may not be the quintessential answer I think it makes for a compelling solution. And so I’ll leave you simply with his answer.

Hold onto the experience. With both hands. It'll slip away eventually, but you'll have it for a few seconds longer. Hold on, because it's worth more than anything you posses. Hold on, and keep it, because it will keep you.

2008-04-02T16:50:00.000-07:00

Here is a case study I did for my fraternity looking at our brand and our culture. Its an over all look at the nature of our brand and some examples of companies that have been successful in building strong brands.

2008-03-27T14:01:00.001-07:00

I recently had a group member ask me a question about how we as strategist make connections with people. His question was quite simple, what do you think of when you think about something being raw? What immediately pops into your head? What does that look like? What does it feel like? How do you uncover it and use it to connect with people?

At first glance I didn’t think much about the concept. I mean, raw is essentially that which you deem to be authentic, right. Simply the absolute basic, stripped down, purely organic content that makes up something. Not really much to it! But as I began to contemplate on this idea of understanding the nature of raw, I wonder if something intrinsically powerful resides behind the simple concept.

Last weekend I was fortunate enough to witness N.E.R.D. perform live here in Richmond for the first time. The show was simply incredible. The energy, the love, the anticipation, and the camaraderie among avid fans was breathtaking. The whole experience had the making of an urban myth centered around the best hip hop concert of our time. Like it had somehow been pulled directly from a Spike Lee Joint or something. Without a doubt, the strongest aspect of the show was Pharrell’s energy, his sincerity when spiting his lyrics, and his natural ability to intimately engage the audience. I walked away that night knowing that somewhere in the venue, there were some young cats who would remember this show for the rest of their lives. That it would somehow shape the way they looked at life and how they viewed their futures.

And so it’s this phenomenon that I found so intriguing. I’m not even really a fan of Pharrell or N.E.R.D. I had followed some of their earlier music from like four years back, and had appreciated the fact that they were creating a new style and sound within the game. But truth be told, I never really rocked with them beyond what little songs they managed to get on the radio. But for those three hours while I was in the thick of the concert you would think I had been apart of the camp from day one. Like I had been somehow involved with the creation of the group and now I was just there number one fan. So…Why is that? How is that even possible?

I didn’t realize it at the time but now as I reflect on it, it becomes quite obvious. They did a phenomenal job with telling the story of the N.E.R.D brand and engaged the audience the whole way through. They embodied the very characteristics of this absolute raw concept. There wasn’t any tracks being played over the speakers or any studio produces sound effects. Just simply a blend of the band, their lyrics and the raw passion they brought to the stage. It was this encounter with the absolute rawness of what N.E.R.D. was and what they stood for that was so powerful not the notoriety of the group. And this is the god honest truth, if they would have been selling any of the bands merchandise at the end of the show, I very well might of, bought every Billionaire Boys Club and Ice Cream t-shirt they had available. The connection was that strong!

So I wonder what might happen if strategist could reproduce that same kind of encounter with consumers and other brands? What if we could harness those fillings people get when they encounter the raw nature of a brand and use it to help grow a company? Is it even possible? I wonder is there even any substance to this idea of encountering the raw nature of a product, or was I just overtaken by a sense of heightened emotions stimulated by rhythmic beat?

2008-03-26T23:14:00.001-07:00

The last couples of weeks have been entertaining, as I have watched America debate and analyze over the controversial black liberation comments of Reverend Jeremiah Wright. And even more so, how they have become linked and essentially a representation of Obama himself. The Barack backers will tell you that it’s wrong to link the man to the views of his supporters while, the conservatives will argue, you are who you represent.

Truthfully, I think both points are valid but the one thing that we must take into consideration is the simple fact that Barack Obama in himself has become a brand. He has worked tirelessly to make himself marketable among the American youth and in all honesty he has succeeded. People have followed him, they have supported him, and they have worn their shirts proudly to proclaim his cause. Along with his charismatic charm he has been able transform him self from an articulate politician into a beloved brand. So the real question I think we should be asking ourselves is simply this, Are brands responsible for the actions of their supporters?

We’re living in a world now where advertising has outgrown its simple past. It’s all about building strong brands and allowing your consumers to experience your brand at all touch points. It’s about building communities around your brand and transforming your customers into brand ambassadors. But what happens when those beloved ambassadors step out side the core believes of the brand. Should the brand itself be forced to address the situation? Do they have a responsibility to publicly decline the endorsements of these people?

I don’t think that there is an easy answer to this question but it is my opinion that brands on their own merit shouldn’t be linked to the philosophies and believes of its ambassadors. I would like to reference one of America’s most beloved brands, Harley Davidson, and look at how they have addressed the situation. In a time when Harley Davidson was in serious financial trouble they found themselves being endorsed by an unlikely tribe of social outcast by the name of The Hell’s Angels. There’s no doubt that society wasn’t pleased with the groups menacing personality and vigilante form of justice but, that didn’t mean that people could looked to Harley as being an advocate for their cause. They were simply a brand that stood for quality American made motorcycles. Their values and core believes hadn’t changed even if they had become the unofficial brand of choice for a group of outcast.

Now, I’m not saying that companies shouldn’t address situations in which their ambassadors cause negative perceptions of the brand but I do think that people should look beyond the supporters and look into the heart of the brand. In terms of the political arena I would think all four candidates have some kind of link to controversial supporters. Just look at the Clintons and their dealings with anti-gay pastoral supporters or Mcain and his dealing with Jack Kemp (A former vice president nominee who supported the views of Louis Farrakhan).

But, I think Barack-O-Brand presents a unique situation. Because he has worked so hard to establish himself as this brand of change, I think he must work twice as hard to protect and ensure that his brand doesn’t become damaged. Like a brand his campaign has become a living-breathing creature. So to answer the question should he be held accountable for the actions of his supporters...No…but if he wants any a chance at wining the nomination, I think he must.

-LTS

2007-12-06T15:31:00.000-08:00

And so it is finished...The first semester of gradschool is done and in the books. It came at the cost of an all nighter to complete our dvd presentation but it was worth it. To see the shear amount of determination of students to put out the best work possible was inspiring. To see people in class wearing the same cloths from last night, to see your group members passed out on the couches and table, and to watch 1/3 of the class dosing off during your final class is an awe inspiring feeling. I must admit I think we stumbled across the finish line and just couldn't wait for the fall break, but the truth is in about a week I think I'll be so anxious to do "work" it will be miserable. I guess I'll just have to do all my creative thinking in Houston... perhaps some art, or maybe some ads... anyways here is my latest little bit of art work I did for my internship application.

~LTS

2007-11-21T07:07:00.001-08:00

Thank God it is finally Thanksgiving break! Although, like my social life, the adcenter has somehow found a way to dominate this also. So there will undoubtly be some concepting of ideas, many emails, a couple of surveys and some creative thinking but I might find some time to lay around and be indolent. And who knows just for fun I might throw in a " Now lets go around the room and say what were all thankful for!" Oh, goodtimes!

2007-11-11T21:20:00.000-08:00

When does fear turn into complacency and how does humility find refuge within pride. How could I of ever become comfortable within an institution that challenges the bounds of excellence? Somewhere down the line, as the semester progressed I found my niche within this school and developed the infamous “I too belong here” mentality. The result… my work may be good but its surly not, reach for the stars great. In the beginning, I worked my butt off in hopes that I would just survive the first week, and now I’m already overlooking the last two weeks of class in anticipation of the holiday break. Excellence hates complacency… and in truth, they can never coexist. Their will always be a struggle between the two, and for excellence at least… you can’t just tolerate it, you must love the struggle. James more inspiringly put it when he said… “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.” In all of your obstacles and achievements consider the character within the struggle, and love to learn it. If I leave you with anything it is simply this, complacency is the great equalizer among our people… supercede it with excellence.

2007-11-11T15:03:00.000-08:00

Alright, so as I'm sure you all are aware of the numerous different styles of advertising. As generation Y millennials, were prime targets for the direct mail, TV, you tube, social network, and interactive media advertisement bombardment! But there is one type of media execution that I love to work with: A concept we call in the advertising world Guerrilla Marketing! I love it because it doesn't just promote another product but rather it adds to the outdoor experience. True its rare ifyou ever see one of these promotions in person but if do...it sure to be an image you'll remember. I grabed some pictures for you guys to check out, I think you'll find that the executions speak for themselves. If you wanted to see some more of these nontraditional advertisements check out the books "Advertising is dead, Long live advertising" and " Hoopla".

2007-11-10T17:41:00.000-08:00

So this challenge is for you kid, you know who you are! So how about it...are you game!

2007-11-10T15:59:00.001-08:00

So its November and if you have ever been my roommate during this time you know exactly what that means... Its time to breakout the Soulful Christmas Motown edition cd! What can I say its tradition, its all about getting head start on the Christmas season. Its all just a prerequisite to that time when I break out into a full fledge 24 hours of a Christmas Story! Ok, so November might be a little soon for the Christmas hits but this cd is a definite must!

2007-11-10T15:23:00.000-08:00

Its 1:30 on a cool Tuesday afternoon and for right now I’m just taking it easy for lunch.. I’m at the Broad street McDonald’s in the medical district finally getting a chance to do lunch on my own for a change. A time of solitude that I cherish since every aspect of my life is dictated by group work. I’m sitting at the table, with my ipod blarring the 116 cliques latest album, with a fresh white long sleeve thermal and my vintage jeans…you know how I do. As I’m finishing my meal I am anxiously awaiting the elderly gentlemen next to me to leave so that I can grab his news paper.

Finally he jets back off to work and I’m able to indulge into the Pervez Musharraf state of emergency article, which I have been salivating every since I sat down. As I frantically finish the first page and proceed to continue on to page A6 , my eyes catch a glance of four children at the table in front of me. With their table covered in hamburger wrappers, fries, and toys. Conversations of cartoons and toys and 12 year old jokes. That’s when I realized it was official…I had grown up. I had become that guy… the grown up at the next table... the guy that me and my friends as children would see and think, it’s the real world for you buddy.

With their newspapers, computer typing and old man music. It was clear, that time had come full circle and with an unannounced arrival. I laughed just in the fact that I could remember being that way in a McDonalds with friends… but even more so that I had had become that guy…Almost like something you might see in a McDonalds commercials targeted towards African Americans….you know like the tradition based on having your birthday party at McDonalds’s as a rite of passage. I must say that Tuesday’s are good days…even if you find your self to be that guy.

2007-10-25T15:16:00.001-07:00

IMPOSSIBLE IS NOTHING! It seems that Adidas is truly living by there words in their new Basketball is brotherhood campaign. The truth of the matter is that the whole campaign is spectacular. Any ball player will tell you that the emotions and the feel of the campaign are genuine. The execution of the concept and exploration of the culture are flawless.

Remember the sound of the first ball hitting the court at 7am for Saturday morning practice. Or the synchronized panting of a group of guys who just ran 30 laps. Or maybe the queasy feeling you get in your stomach from the infectious laughter you shared on the bus ride to the gym. If you don’t, then this campaign will surely bring you back by indulging in their fully integrated Brotherhood campaign. An in-depth look at an elite basketball camp where NBA all-stars teach the next generation about the essence of Brotherhood.

Is there any better way to say it then, Basketball is a Brotherhood. A band of brothers, a team, a family, a fraternity of warriors. The truth is the message resonates deep within the core of young men whose’ hoops dreams of NBA fame died long ago and have turned to corporate world ambitions. And to the Youngbloods who are still living the dream it, serves as an inspiration and motivation for the struggle of the off-season. Authenticity is the key, Adidas has capitalized on it and that’s why this spot works so well. It’s not just clever way to sell you kicks, it’s about the concepts of hard work, no pain no fame, die for your teammates, and sacrifice. Just look at the character and personality of the coaches, Tracy McGrady Chauncey Billups Kevin Garnett, Dwight Howard, Tim Duncan, and agent zero himself Gilbert Arenas. Most of them have rings some of them don’t, but all of them are recognized as being among the NBA’s elite players. All of which have already started paving their way for a place in Hall of Fame.

Lets look at the genius of this campaign from the advertising perspective. Not only have they established a small culture around the basketball brotherhood but they have given the perception that the consumer can also be apart of this elite training camp by gaining access through the website. The connection from the commercial leads to a push to the internet where players are highlighted in behind the scenes pep talks about their role in their respective brotherhoods. You’re able to view the NBA all-stars in a more personal manner. Including a segment with Dwight Howard Crankin that Soulja Boy with some youngsters.

But aside from the beautifully produced video footage they have the centerpiece of it all, the Team Signature basketball shoe displayed beautifully on the homepage. Its remarkable that Adidas has created a whole culture and community that can be self sustained on its own merit, and yet it’s really just added value to encourage people to buy the shoes. ( Welcome to the new direction of Advertising!) What truly makes this campain spectacular is that Adidas understands this segment. The mere fact that the shoes aren’t promoted every three seconds throughout the media speaks volumes to their commitment to the message. In fact the shoes are never even verbally mentioned by the players or the camp participants. Now, obviously everyone you see in the short films are sporting all Adidas appeal but there is not one time in any of the videos where the attention is drawn to the apparel and away from the camp.

The work my not receive awards from the industry but the vision of the campaign will be praised by ball players and fans alike for a very long time. The NBA Season starts next week and the Houston Rocket brotherhood will be ready to take the west!…What brotherhood do you belong to?

2007-10-16T17:02:00.000-07:00

"The problem is never how to get new, innovative thoughts into your mind, but how to get old ones out. Every mind is a building filled with archaic furniture. Clean out a corner of your mind and creativity will instantly fill it." ~ Dee Hock

I think this quote says it all... and when you stop to think that someone could actually concept this design and then engineer the idea this beautifully...the possibilities of human design truly are endless! This Mac was conceptualized by designer and illustrator Adam Benton... A genius and "Santa Clause" to all Mac enthusiast everywhere.

http://www.gizmowatch.com/entry/eye-freezing-future-imac-concept/&h=397&w=400&sz=29&hl=en&start=2&sig2=oFzossGbCeLeQ84oug064g&tbnid=OeD9HiPcooVGpM:&tbnh=123&tbnw=124&ei=RE4VR8jsA5SOeLT92PMK&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dimac%26gbv%3D2%26svnum%3D10%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DG

2007-10-16T16:12:00.000-07:00

"The Virginia Commonwealth University Adcenter, one of the leading graduate advertising programs in the country, has been named one of the world's 60 best design schools by BusinessWeek magazine.

In addition to making the list for the first time, the VCU Adcenter was featured in an article in this week’s issue, “Advertising by Design,” which cites the program for its collaborative style. “This is a tremendous honor and one that we are most appreciative of,” said Rick Boyko, director of the VCU Adcenter. “While our history is short in comparison to other programs, we have been driven to adapt to our industry and challenge our students like no other graduate advertising program in the country. We're humbled that BusinessWeek has taken notice.”

In 2005, the VCU Adcenter was named the No. 1 graduate advertising program in the country by Creativity magazine. In January, the Adcenter will move into its new home — a Clive Wilkinson-designed building that will further fuel collaboration and creativity."

http://www.businessweek.com/innovate/content/oct2007/id2007104_974053.htm?chan=search

I wish that I could take a little pride in our 15 mins of fame...but truth be told I had nothing to do with this accolade. Just grateful for the opportunity to be apart of the movement. But, look out for the class of 2009 next year...we surly will be on track to shake things up again!!!

2007-10-15T15:32:00.000-07:00

Just a quick intro...this is it this is the new blog! Yeah, just a bit of an upgrade to a more contemporary style. Unfortunately I decided to leave the "Boston Life" blog behind. It was a good medium to display my own personal expressions but I think it was best served in its time over the summer. And that’s where we will leave it... a twelve part series of an exhilarating summer. And with that...Welcome to the Pristine Illumination Blog! This one will be focused more towards my experiences at the Adcenter, current events in the advertising industry, and anything else worth bloging! Hopefully there will be more frequent installments, although they unequivocally will be much shorter!

So what better place to start then with creativity! I recently heard a quote in class from Picasso that stated "As children we all were born artist, the problem is that we are educated out of it." My initial reaction was sarcastically discordant with the famous artist’s observations. But as I pondered the notion I can’t help but entertain the question could this possibly be true. Could the education system that is so highly esteemed among our society, be one in which it prides itself on killing creativity? Well, just a quick look at history of any school board in the country will show you that you don’t have to be clairvoyant to know what’s the first thing to be cut in times of financial trouble... undoubtedly it is the program for the Arts. The music program, the art budget, and the dance facilities... somewhere down the line they inherited the label of "that which is extraneous!"

So maybe ole' abstract Picasso was on to something! Perhaps creativity has been a dieing characteristics for over 70 years. Perhaps we have underestimated the significance of creativity and its place in our culture. I had a good friend once tell me that she loves to blast her music and dance her heart out...in high heels... and her underwear! So of course, I jumped on the opportunity to clown her on being a nerd! But looking back on it surely this has to be one of the most prolific displays of self-expression and creativity. Now, I like to think that I know my friends fairly well and this absolutely seems to be right down her alley. So I can only wonder why this aspect of her personality doesn't resonate in her choice of profession! Is it because we have suppressed creativity with mathematics and science... or is there just limited space for a creative mind in a business oriented world.

I personally think the problem is in the absolutes! Why does it have to be one or the other? Why is it that our jobs are reserved for work and our lives reserved for creativity? Is there a balance were innovation meets income? Can there be a fusion of commerce and creativity in the modern day world, or is that concept reserved specifically for those who seek it?

P.S.~ Piccaso's full name was "Pablo Diego José Francisco de Paula Juan Nepomuceno María de los Remedios Cipriano de la Santísima Trinidad Clito Ruiz y Picasso" now how is that for creativty!

2007-10-15T15:30:00.000-07:00

Alright, so for the year I have self proclaimed myself as a music critic and will be reviewing some of the best young artist and their music. The summer series is cleverly entitled "Artist Synonymous with musicianship" *(Credit for this extremely dope title is partially do to my boy Jastin) We can just call it the ASM series!

Is there any artist that is more pure than John Mayer? Surely he is one of the best singer and songwriters of our time. Aside from his numerous hits it seems that the man with the gifted melody has done it again in his latest album continuum. Although the album has been out for a year, like most of his music it has been overlooked until the perpetual hype of one song entices everyone else into his genius. Dreaming with a broken heart undoubtedly is one of the best songs of the year and should’ve just been handed a Grammy upon its release. As to why it was not the first single released I don’t know, but like the man’s music, he’s probably two steps ahead of us. The music is incomparable and the lyrics are flawless…mixed with his hypnotic voice and rhythm, there simply is no one better. Instant classic…if there were ever a song to follow the shear emotional overflow from his hit single "Daughters"…it would have to be inspired from the very artist himself, and "Dreaming with a Broken Heart" would be that song. Pure is the man’s music…unfathomable is his creative process…grateful is the world. If you have ever wondered why record labels produce CD singles, this song is your answer.

John Mayer synonymous with Pristine*

2007-10-15T15:26:00.000-07:00

In the summer of 2000 the future voice of R&B asked the world one simple question...Who is Jill Scott? Now after three more albums, marriage, and an array of musical accolades the sultry songbird now has her fans asking the question, is there anyone in the music industry that can emulate the style and sound of the one and only Mrs. Jill Scott!

I think I'll start this review were my heart resides, and that's in her debut album the legendary, Who is Jill Scott. Like so many artist the true essence of Mrs. Scott is enlaced through out all 18 of her debute memories. Non more beautiful than the 4 track run she places within the heart of the cd, tucked brilliantly behind her amiable "Long Walk" track. She starts by first seducing her listeners with the methodical "I think its better" interlude before easing into her ode to hubby Lyzel, in "He loves me". She then continues the run with "It's love" before finishing the quartet with perhaps her most powerful song from the album "Way". The remainder of the album sparks an emotional journey through the ever expanding bounds of love, relationships, and life.

Like a fine wine this sister only seems to get better with time, and with her recent collections of collaborations she proves just how sonorous her beautiful voice truly is. The only thing better would be experiencing the queen herself live in concert, a privilege unfortunately I have not yet been able to experience. So what makes this soul diva just so special, her music timeless, and her voice so intoxicating? Maybe it's because she doesn't just sing them but actually lives through her songs, allowing her to connect with her audience through the language of soul music! Or maybe its because she truly is what her website would call " a women in touch with the rhythm of her own spirit" Anyway you look at it the women is simply a phenomenal singer,songwriter, poet and performer. If R&B ever decided to enter into courtship with Neo-soul, then Jill Scott would surly be their Musiqal Soulchild!

Jill Scott synonymous with Perennial Perfection*

2007-10-14T10:02:00.000-07:00

In the process of switching over Boston Life material, and then I'll start with the new post!

2007-10-14T09:41:00.001-07:00

So this is the new blog spot!