"There's an independence to surfing, it's just you and the ocean. There aren't a bunch of rules."
About Lee Clow
Lee Clow — Life and Legacy
Lee Clow is a prominent figure in the advertising world, celebrated for his innovative approach and significant contributions to brand storytelling. His work with Apple, especially the iconic 'Think Different' campaign, marked a turning point in how brands connect emotionally with consumers. Clow's philosophy centers on the idea that creativity is a process accessible to all, encapsulated in his assertion that 'Creativity is not a talent, it's a way of operating.' This perspective challenges traditional notions of artistry, encouraging a mindset that values observation and collaboration as keys to success. Through his campaigns, Clow has consistently demonstrated that effective advertising goes beyond mere promotion; it aims to forge genuine connections with audiences. His belief that 'The best ideas come from the best people' underscores the importance of teamwork and diverse viewpoints in the creative process. Today, Clow's insights continue to resonate, reminding marketers and creatives alike that the heart of impactful advertising lies in understanding and engaging with the human experience.
Quote collection
Lee Clow quotes (page 1 of 3)
45 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.
"An ad should be an appetizer, not a buffet."
"If it's been done, do it better. If it hasn't been done, do it so well that better is not an option."
"I’d rather apologize than to be so timid as to never try to do anything smart or brave."
"Creativity thrives on a consistent diet of challenges and opportunities, which are often one and the same."
"Actions speak louder than meetings."
"Most ideas are a bit scary, and if an idea isn't scary, it's not an idea at all."
"Baby Steps are for Babies, Not Brands. Be Amazing or Be Surpassed."
"[In 2007] People's relationship with a brand is becoming a dialog, not a monolog."
"I've never found a client's business problem that could be solved solely through advertising."
"It's very demeaning that we have to put on a show to prove that we know how to put on a show."
"I have always felt the word 'advertising' is either a diminutive or derogatory term that kind of goes with stuff people don't like, and I always felt frustrated because I felt like I was a communication artist or a media artist. The best advertising is one of the art forms of our culture."
"When creatively passionate people get together to start a company, the energy and camaraderie is really pretty stimulating."
"Make it smart. Make it beautiful. Have fun."
"Creative people are 50% ego and 50% insecurity."
"Consumers never complain about ads being too smart."
"An incredible advertising career is not about creating an incredibly amazing ad, it's about making an incredible amazing ad every single day of your career, it's about getting those adds killed, and resurrecting them over and over again. It's about your season average not that occasional home-run."
"Listen real hard to the smartest guy in the room before you go trying to prove how smart you are."
"Shocking is easy. Shockingly brilliant, a bit more challenging."
"Hey! You can be more than just a car company. You can be more than just a pet food company. You can aspire to loving dogs, rather than just feeding dogs."