Miami Ad School at Portfolio Center

In Paris, France then on to Cannes representing Miami Ad School for the Cannes Creativity Festival for 10 days. First time here- I don’t know what I am doing, but Life is an adventure! I’m all in!

This is an awesome interview with One Club/ Board Member Pum Lefebure and this year's Jury President for Design, the legendary John Jay.

John C. Jay, retired Global Executive Director of Wieden+Kennedy and current President of Global Creative for Fast Retailing Inc., is LEGENDARY in the advertising industry. His early recognition of branding helped propel Wieden+Kennedy to the top of creative agencies. Today, he manages various global projects, continuing to influence the industry. Fast Retailing owns Uniqlo, with whom Jay has also collaborated.

Pum leads an incredible design agency in Washington, Design Army. As a visionary and a leader, she brings creativity to new heights, constantly pushing the boundaries of design. Her role as a board member of The One Club for Creativity further highlights her dedication to the craft and her influence in the in our industry. Pum's passion and expertise inspires designers, art directors, creatives everywhere, myself in that number, to innovate and create with purpose.

Attention all of you pasta aficionados, design devotees, and lovers of Italian culture! Prepare to be captivated by "Al Dente: The Design of Pasta," a groundbreaking exhibition at the Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA). I was just there for the opening on Friday evening. It Celebrates Italy’s most cherished culinary art form, this showcase promises a tantalizing journey through the past, present, and future of pasta. As I wandered through the opening night, it became clear: the path ahead for pasta is nothing short of spectacular.

"Al Dente" isn't just an exhibition; it's an immersive exploration of the art and science behind pasta. It delves into the innovative ways pasta is made, cooked, and savored, revealing the intricate design processes that transform simple ingredients into culinary masterpieces. Here, pasta transcends its role as mere food, rather emerging as a vibrant symbol of creativity and tradition. Pasta moved from being a noun to a verb!

Extend your experience beyond the exhibition by joining MODA and Chow À La Carte for an exclusive pasta-making class. Under the guidance of Chef Deborah Kudelka, you'll craft your own pasta, then sit down to a sumptuous dinner complete with drinks and dessert. Dive deeper into the world of gourmet with a coffee crash course led by the founders of Coffee Man in Blandtown, and don't miss Lee Mayfield's engaging talk on the influence of design in the craft spirits industry, culminating in a special tasting of local gin and amari.

This is more than an exhibition; it's an invitation to experience, learn, and taste. Secure your tickets at this link: https://www.simpletix.com/e/exhibition-ticket-al-dente-the-design-of-p-tickets-166509 , or contact Mary directly at MODA, [email protected] for more on all the stellar programming and culinary events that await.

Located directly across from the HIGH Museum at 1315 Peachtree, Atlanta (same building where Miami Ad School Atlanta is located). MODA is not just a museum; it’s a gateway to a world of design and delight. Discover why it’s one of Atlanta’s best-kept secrets. Don’t miss out—immerse yourself in the wonder and innovation of "Al Dente"!

Simplicity drives beauty to elegance. Lamborghini today unveiled their new logo after 20 years. The iconic bull emblem symbolizes bravery and authenticity, heralding a new era of transformation in one of the world's best designed automobiles. The logo lockup also got a refreshed typeface echoing precision– as always, Lamborghini honors tradition while embracing elegance.

So great to have Liz, my daughter home for a quick weekend visit in from Houston. And Richard, in Boise. Two incredible children, the greatest gifts in my life. Lucky doesn't begin to describe it. Grateful every day for their love and joy they bring. Life's true blessings.

Genius thinking comes in points of view. I just read Sir John Hegarty's thoughts from yesterday in an amazing p.o.v. he shared, it is so worth resharing -- no doubt will find some argument. Here's to- Imagination! and Thinking within a world where Creativity, Technology and Innovation thrive!

DON'T BE A TOOL: PICK THE RIGHT ONE
by Sir John Hegarty

"You can’t eat soup with a fork. You shouldn’t hammer in a screw. And those who bring a knife to a gunfight find themselves at a severe disadvantage. Selecting the wrong tool for the job usually delivers poor results. It’s perilous too. There’s a section on the subject to be found in a safety handbook produced by the US Navy. It cautions against things like using a chair where a ladder is necessary, or a knife when you need a screwdriver. There’s more jeopardy associated with these things at sea – but this sort of thing is still cavalier on land.

The physical examples are absurd. But in the digital sphere, we’re a lot more lenient when it comes to selecting the incorrect tackle. The worst offenders are those who obsess over the power of data – specifically, its ability to predict and measure things that were unmeasurable before. Research and evidence are fundamentally important, but we’re so enchanted with the capabilities of data that it’s started to feel like we can’t come to a decision without the reassurance of a stat. This is a problem – an emphasis on what’s been prevents the imagining of what might be.

Data never invented anything
Amidst all the talk of data-driven businesses, the greatest commercial achievements of recent decades have had surprisingly little to do with it. Consider the most successful product from the (until recently) biggest company in the world – Apple’s iPhone. The story of its conception involved a handful of envelope-pushing tech executives drawing on their knowledge of the consumer, and the creative capacity of their development teams. Data took a back seat to human insight. This is the case with almost every brilliant product that we deem indispensable in 2024. James Dyson’s bagless vacuum cleaner, Elon Musk’s Tesla car company, Bill Bowerman’s running shoe, called Nike. These contributions to our civilisation came from imagination.

Data informs, creativity inspires
The same is true in marketing and brand-building. Data becomes useful to businesses when it exposes a truth. As I’ve often said, when an idea possesses that quality, it becomes powerful. Uncovering a fact might spark the creative engine, but that isn’t enough. It takes empathy, intuition and perseverance to bring off a campaign around it. The great brand campaigns of the last twenty years are all built around truth, whether that authenticity is drawn from a data point or not matters less than most digital zealots would have us believe.

A debate is raging when it comes to how AI will impact creativity and business. More tools don’t always result in better outcomes, but as they proliferate the best entrepreneurs – like the best carpenters – should remember which ones to pick up, and which ones to leave on the bench."

Sir John Hegarty, is a legendary figure in advertising & design for now over six decades, and is renowned for his creative brilliance and innovative ideas for brands. He co-founded and led BBH Agency, a powerhouse in the industry, until its acquisition by Publicis in 2012. Now, he spearheads The Garage, London's premier incubator for early-stage startups, channeling his energy into nurturing new ventures. His mantra, "if you do interesting things, interesting things will happen to you," encapsulates his approach to creativity and life, inspiring others to pursue excellence and embrace the unexpected.

www.linkedin.com

Melissa Kuperminc, passed away on February 13th. Melissa Kuperminc was a loved and celebrated designer, friend to many and over many years, instructor based in Atlanta. She taught graphic design for over twenty-five years in this city, first at Miami Ad School Atlanta, and more recently at SCAD. If you were a student of hers, a friend then you know the amazing spirit and passion she brought to her classroom.

Melissa's family and friends will be hosting a "Celebration of Life" on the evening of Friday, May 3rd from 6pm to 8pm at the Museum of Design, Atlanta (MODA). All are welcome. RSVP at https://lnkd.in/eU8v7vNX

In preparation for this event, we are inviting you to submit a story, image, design, or scribble to the following link (https://lnkd.in/eXkBjA_7). Content posted by March 22 will be collected from this blog and turned into a book to be offered to Melissa's family and distributed at the event. Please include your name in the post so you can be recognized.

We hope to see you there.

What a night to remember at Miami Ad School Atlanta! Our exciting networking event surpassed all expectations, and the energy is still buzzing! A heartfelt shoutout to the exceptional professionals, creative agencies, design firms, alumni, and aspiring talents who graced us with their presence.
The vibrant atmosphere and invaluable insights turned the evening into an absolute celebration, enhanced by the delicious blend of Atlanta home cooking and the soulful beats of Atlanta music– from Zack Bryan to Killer Mike.
Miami Ad School Atlanta nestled in our stunning new space at 1315 Peachtree Street, right in the heart of Midtown Atlanta's arts district, the event exuded a unique Atlanta charm. Miami Ad School Atlanta and Atlanta itself— you've truly showcased your talent for forging connections and leaving a lasting impression!
But hold on, the excitement doesn't stop here – we're just getting started on this thrilling journey. Stay tuned for more adventures as we continue to make waves. Miami Ad School Atlanta and Atlanta: Southern Heat, Urban Beat!!!

Home is where you pitch your tent for hope, and for our Miami Ad School Atlanta students do just that, it's more than just a school—it's a place to hang their hat, learn, and grow and have fun. Here, camaraderie isn't accidental; it's intentionally woven into the fabric of trust, accountability, and togetherness. As our talented grads wrap-up their portfolios, they're not just preparing for tomorrow's graduation, but also cherishing these final moments as students. There's something truly special about Miami Ad School Atlanta—where passion meets purpose and friendships and futures are forged.

As graduation nears, thoughts turn to jobs... How excited the graduate candidates are as they pick-up their 'pink robes for the 1st time. Miami Ad School Atlanta with a 95% job placement rate and active alumni working in 52 countries around the world puts these amazing grad candidates in a great place. Here's to some Happy soon-to-be-grads (Anna LeBer, Nic De La Hoz, Bryan Robinson and 15 others) on Friday evening- Infinite Minds, Endless Creations and awesome Future's ahead!

Lots of activities ongoing at Miami Ad School/ 🔥’lanta! to share out. All free, excepting the Atl. Addy Awards Gala, and open to the public during Atlanta's Creative Week. Pick one, just show up and you're Welcome!

What captivates me about Miami Ad School/ Atlanta graduates is their unwavering camaraderie and commitment to excellence instilled during their transformative education in Atlanta. As they traverse the globe in their dynamic careers, the bond formed at the school remains unbroken. In the vibrant setting of San Juan, Puerto Rico, luminaries like Wade Thompson, Jeff Jarvis, and Raymond Forbes-Schieche reunite, celebrating the enduring success they've achieved, and they send along their message just so I won't forget. Miami Ad School/ Atlanta imparts not just skills but an inherited curiosity, granting permission to explore and fostering the vital ability to reflect on both past and future endeavors. It's a place where thriving is not just encouraged but expected. Ultimately, Miami Ad School/ Atlanta shapes individuals into their best selves, guiding them to discover and pursue their true passion, affirming their integrity, and empowering them to share their unique voices with the world. Here’s to the continuous journey of creativity and success fueled by the real values of a Miami Ad School education.

hashtag hashtag hashtag hashtag EDH hashtag hashtag hashtag

Congratulations! to Reagan Williams, a recent graduate of Miami Ad School Atlanta's Design Program. She has accepted a position– and is now! the newest graphic designer at Garden & Gun Magazine in Charleston S.C. Reagan's exceptional design skills have propelled her into this exciting opportunity at the award-winning national magazine, celebrated for its extensive coverage of the South's culture. With a readership exceeding one million, Garden & Gun is a lifestyle brand anchored by it impressive Garden & Gun Magazine and provides a prestigious platform for Reagan to showcase her talent. This achievement stands as a testament to Miami Ad School's creative preparedness and its impressive 95% placement rate, demonstrating the incredible career opportunities that await its graduates. Cheers! out to Reagan Williams on this remarkable career milestone!

Behind the scenes, in the heart of our Miami Ad School creative culture, lie some unsung heroes of Miami Ad School – the incredible 'Awards team. With boundless dedication, Brianna Bowman (not pictured) , Anna LeBer, Jamie Jason, and Reagan Williams, and Stephanie Grendzenski, of counsel(not pictured) and Managing Dir. of Miami Ad School Atlanta- work with me to orchestrate the entry of all our students for over thirty competitions worldwide. Their selfless commitment is a testament to the belief that supporting peers is not just a task, but a calling.
In the intricate world of award competitions, these young individuals support our students from NY, Miami, and Atlanta and across the world in weaving together the threads of complexity with love and passion. Their relentless efforts, often unseen, contribute to the tapestry of success that envelops Miami Ad School as one of the TOP Ten Advertising and Design schools in the world.
As we applaud those who stand on stage to receive accolades, let's not forget the powerhouse team that propels them there with all the behind the scenes work. The achievements of an organization are, after all, the sum of individual efforts. Kudos to Brianna Bowman, Anna LeBer, Jamie Jason, Reagan Williams and Stephanie Grendzenski for exemplifying the mantra that excellence is a collective journey.
This is more than a post; it's an invitation to acknowledge the brilliance and dedication of these remarkable individuals. To Bri, Anna, Jamie, Reagan, and Stephanie, of counsel and the entire awards team – you are the architects of excellence, and your reputation precedes you.
One of the most important phrases in any language is one of the simplest ones- THANK YOU.

In the crucible of the Institute of Packaging Professionals' 48 HR. Repack national collegiate competition, a remarkable group of young creatives at Miami Ad School Atlanta are relentlessly working towards a shared vision. Picturing themselves on the Coca-Cola Global World headquarters stage, a future within reach to find awarding. Believing in themselves and embracing courage, determination, dedication, and sacrifice, they are the embodiment of a best team education Miami Ad School Atlanta provides. Tonight as they are in the arena into the night heading toward 48 continuous hours of work, amidst sacrifice and mental toughness, they persevere, proving that individual commitment fuels collective success. This education at Miami Ad School Atlanta is a testament to their unwavering pursuit of excellence. They come together as 'creatives to THINK,MAKE & DO, as their potential knows no bounds.

Howdy, Y'all! Get ready for a foot-stompin', heart-thumpin' Southern soirée that's gonna be hotter than a cat on a tin roof- Feb. 23, 6:30 pm! If you're into the sounds of Janelle Monte, Kali Chis, Atlanta's own Andre, and a lineup as sweet as peach cobbler featuring Sean Mason, Killer Mike, Margo Price, Tyler Childers, Yaeji, and more – this party's for you! Picture this: a mix of tunes so good, you might just spot Elvis dustin' off his blue suede shoes at Miami Ad School.
Whether you're a curious critter hungry for knowledge and a new direction, a creative firecracker lookin' to connect, or just someone who knows a good time when they see it, consider this your golden ticket. We're not just throwin' a shindig for our fancy new digs – Join the free-spirited wingding on Feb. 23rd as we break in our new spot, with the lively spirit of Atlanta and the South at Miami Ad School Atlanta. This ain't just an invite; it's a Southern summons, and we reckon you better answer!
Miami Ad School Atlanta is hollerin', and it's high time you joined the party! Yo, check the heat in Hotlanta, where the city's so lit, we call it Hotlanta! Come vibe with the sizzle, feel the beat.

1315 Peachtree Street, Atlanta, Ga. 30309, 'Oh so 'Sweet 300, upstairs... (Free and open to the public). We'll start up at 6:30 pm, so be prompt as a magnolia bloom in February – no dilly-dallyin!'

48 hours. ONE design challenge! Miami Ad School Atlanta students get ready to kickoff 15th annual IOPP National Student 48 our RePack Packaging Competition tonight, Over the next continuous 48 hours, these bright minds will dive headfirst into a thrilling design challenge, fueled by the excitement of taking on real-world problems presented by industry leaders such as Plastixx FSS, The Coca-Cola Company, WestRock, and Canovation.
The 48HR REPACK, sponsored by the Institute of Packaging Professionals showcases the extraordinary skills and talents of tomorrow's young design professionals.
Rolling up their competitive sleeves Miami Ad School Atlanta students join with schools from all corners of the nation, including RIT, California Polytechnic University, Michigan State, Clemson, Western Michigan, Virginia Tech, U. of Florida, Georgia State, U. of Wisconsin, Georgia Tech, Kennesaw State, and Rutgers, competing in his adrenaline-packed competition as it promises to be nothing short of spectacular!
schools

48 hours. ONE design challenge! Miami Ad School Atlanta students get ready to kickoff 15th annual IOPP National Student Packaging Competition tonight, Over the next continuous 48 hours, these bright minds will dive headfirst into a thrilling design challenge, fueled by the excitement of taking on real-world problems presented by industry leaders such as Plastixx FSS, The Coca-Cola Company, WestRock, and Canovation.
The 48HR REPACK, sponsored by the Institute of Packaging Professionals showcases the extraordinary skills and talents of tomorrow's design professionals.
Rolling up their competitive sleeves Miami Ad School Atlanta students join with schools from all corners of the nation, including RIT, California Polytechnic University, Michigan State, Clemson, Western Michigan, Virginia Tech, U. of Florida, Georgia State, U. of Wisconsin, Georgia Tech, Kennesaw State, and Rutgers, this adrenaline-packed competition promises to be nothing short of spectacular!

schools

Y'all, get ready for a Southern soiree like no other! Join us at our FREE event on Feb. 23rd, celebrating our new spot at Miami Ad School Atlanta.
Whether you're a curious soul, wanting to level-up your education, a creative spirit eager to connect, or just someone who loves a good time, this is your invite. Let's celebrate not just our new space but the lively spirit of Atlanta and the South.
Experience some southern tunes and tastes defining Southern creativity in heart of Midtown Atlanta. This ain't just an invite; it's a promise of Southern hospitality blended with vibrant creative energy.
On the menu? Mouthwatering delights that'll have you asking for seconds – Fried chicken, mac and cheese, collard greens and peach cobbler! Come hungry, leave happy! And don't forget refreshing drinks to keep the party going. Save the date for a night of laughter, music, and flavors transporting you straight to Southern charm in Atlanta.
Don't miss out – this is your ticket to an unforgettable experience on an forgettable night. Y'all better be there 'cause Miami Ad School Atlanta is calling, and it's time to answer!

Miami Ad School Atlanta, 1315 Peachtree Street, Atlanta 30309. (Free and open to the public).

On the elevated platform, each student took their turn, standing amidst the anticipation as they were handed copies of a 1993 Chicago Board of Trade annual report.The design, crafted by designer Dana Arnett at VSA Partners, was a spectacle in itself.
The cover, tabloid-sized and pristine white, bore only a single word in bold black letters, centered in 96-point font.
Design as theater, the room hushed in anticipation.
"Open," declared Liza, the first student.
"Is that really how it looks?" inquired Hank.
"Open," repeated Liza, raising her voice slightly.
"Louder," demanded Hank.
"OPEN!"
"LOUDER!"
"OPEN!"
And so it continued, a dozen spreads unfurling as each student brought the text to life, akin to casting for a play. Hank directed with fervor, pushing them to explore the nuances of typography as if demanding a commanding performance.
The designers—Liza Langstaff, Bri Bowman, Johnny Sanchez, Santiago Doce—found themselves in a typography lesson they would never forget. Typography, they learned, possesses a "physical" voice, transcending its position on a page.
Thin or thick, big or small, in caps or lowercase, serif or sans-serif, black or in color, reversed or letterspaced—each decision played a vital role. Whether pushed to the top of the page or centered, the placement echoed the dramatic narrative unfolding.
In a moment filled with exhilaration, the students came to a realization. Leo Lionni's words, the great artist and designer of the 50s, lingered in the air: "As a designer, my values are absolute, to be found and satisfied only deep within myself—where I search for my most naked integrity, and where, as a result, I stand mostly alone." In the class, the students wholeheartedly embraced their roles as performers, showcasing showmanship and demanding attention.
In this meticulously orchestrated symphony of typography, the class tables transformed into a stage. Each student, whether turning to the quietest page or reveling in the noise at the top of their voice, was heard, and the page came to life. Like actors in a play, the students were transported to that pivotal moment, where they breathed life into the pages.

I stepped in the transformative world of chair design today over at the Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)'s amazing new exhibit,"PLEASE BE SEATED."
You can craft your own chair, marvel at artist-transformed chairs, and explore limitless creativity- as the one Im admiring by Miami Ad School design student Liza Langstaff creating,"Dink Master." A chair as she imagines,"you can only sit in this chair after you've played 4+ hours of pickleball. Go Play!"
Each chair narrates a unique story – from solitude's elegance to the warmth of friendship. From Eileen Gray's timeless designs to Ray and Charles Eames' iconic creations, the exhibit seamlessly blends tradition and modernity, reflecting values and opinions. Brace for a 'WOW factor!,' as you immerse in the rich tapestry of the Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)'s chair exhibit. You’ll rethink chairs as vessels of expression and innovation. "PLEASE BE SEATED" is an invitation to explore the fascinating world of chairs. Your seat awaits – Do stop in, and let the stories unfold.

Meet our Miami Ad School/ Atlanta design graduate — smart n' sassy, just like a perfect espresso shot! Picture this: Designer Catarina Sterlacci, freshly minted from the creative powerhouse that is Miami Ad School/ Atlanta, steps into the vibrant chaos of DROGA5 in NYC. Abercrombie’s talent acquisition director once dubbed our design graduates as, "smart n'sassy," and Cat is the living embodiment of that description. Day 1 at DROGA5, a part of Accenture Song and she's already conquering the concrete jungle with unbridled enthusiasm. From navigating the aisles of IKEA to savoring the delights of Wegmans, bagel expeditions, and cozy hot coffee at ninth street espresso—she's doing it all. "So good!!!!" she exclaims, immersing herself in the New York City experience. And guess what? Her 1st day in the office coincided with the first snow day of the season—talk about "a double doozy," she exclaims! Here's to CATARINA STERLACCI, the epitome of what a Miami Ad School/ Atlanta education can bring—adventure, creativity, and an unstoppable spirit. High Kudos and Congratulations, Cat!

Wade Thompson, Founder, President & Creative Director of Atlanta based global design brand agency (+Miami Ad School alum) sharing along a great pix of his Son&Sons crew working in Paris this week. What's krazy is we have alumni actively working in over 62 different countries around the world right now. As the communications theorist McLuhan once imagined, "the global village has become tribal."

Yesterday, after a productive morning of collaborative work and engaging presentations together, Henry, our Miami Ad School Director, and Rucsandra, our CFO up from Miami, treated us to a delightful lunch. To my surprise, they orchestrated an early birthday celebration – what a wonderful way to cap off our day!
A heartfelt Hurrah! to our incredible MMiami Ad School Atlanta team! We are a dynamic consortium and my cohorts are some of the most talented and energetic individuals in education on the planet (at the table Julie, Rucsandra, Henry, Carolann, Hank, Stephanie, Jason). The day started with hard work and transitioned seamlessly into an afternoon of camaraderie. A BIG Thanks to everyone for the 'early birthday sweets – you all made my day before the day- extra special!

Awesome! Miami Ad School is in New York! So great catching-up with long-time ‘bestie Gail Anderson- Chair of Design and Advertising BFA programs at SVA.
Today we’re together talking about new adventures on the cusp in A.I., but, I’ve known Gail since she was the ‘Design Queen of ‘Rolling Stone magazine, in its heyday…
Wanna learn something about amazing publication design- ck her work out(https://www.gailycurl.com/Rolling-Stone)
Gail is living proof the most talented people are the nicest and kindest people.

"Start spreading the news, We're leaving Monday! We want to be a part of it— New York, New York!" Miami Ad School will be in New York* — myself, Stephanie Grendzinski, Zorayma Guevara, Diego Yurkievich, Manolo Garcia, Farid El Alaoui, Nicole Sepulveda, Cliff Courtney, and tons of Miami Ad School students are going to be in New York City this coming week for Creative Week. "Right through the very heart of it, New York, New York!" If you want to catch a cup of coffee– give a shoutout and we'll see if we can't find a time.

*We are celebrating champions of the global creative community in design and advertising– from students to industry veterans in the world's most renown competitions– The Young Ones Student Awards, where our Miami Ad School students from the U.S. and around the world will be recognized. The One Show, the ADC Annual Awards, and the TDC Annual Competition.