Who?
Tess Dmitrovsky, Creative Director
Tess’s creative hero:
David Sedaris
Why?
I absolutely love the guy. He’s a brilliant writer who can make even the most mundane aspects of life interesting. And he’s brave enough to say what most of us are thinking out loud. Also his outfits.
What piece of Sedaris’ creative work do you return to again and again?
I’m often reminded of things he shared in his master class, and that anything can be a story. Whether it’s his essays or diary entries, Sedaris is the best example of how quality storytelling is just as much about observation as it is about skill. Looking is half the battle. And anything — and I mean anything — can be funny.
Do you have any rituals or routines that you follow when starting a new project?
Quantity over quality.
How do you overcome creative blocks or challenges?
I find it’s always easier to come up with ideas when I’m not the one responsible for them, so I like to imagine it’s someone else’s brief or client or account and I don’t have any backstory. It works surprisingly well.
What would the title of your memoir be?
“Did Anyone Else See That?”
What is your most treasured possession?
I don’t have one. Is that bad? My pens are staring at me like, “why don’t you show us more gratitude?”
What is your idea of happiness?
Delightful shared experiences with strangers.
What is your idea of misery?
Times Square.
What is your favorite curse word?
It’s not one word, but it may as well be: Forfucksake. It’s the equivalent of a loud exhale.
