Make Life
Simple™
Copywriter and all-round good egg Huw Thomas asked if we’d like to team up on a self-promotional poster — one that could double up for charity purposes too. The brief, simply put: Make Life Simple.
Background
What would make life simple? I sat down and wrote out a bunch of thoughts on it. A draft went to Huw by email. He added his thoughts and sent it back. I added mine and sent it back again. The email tennis carried on for a few drafts until we were both happy with the flow. Only then was I ready to commit ink to paper.
To make things more interesting, I sat on London’s Southbank and drafted it in public view — something I’d never done before. I also wrote it upside down, so people could read it as they walked past.
Spreading the word
Lots of people stopped to read it, and I was amazed by the feedback. Several asked if they could buy it. One father read it aloud to his children; a care worker did the same for a young girl in a wheelchair. Mexican, Russian, German, Sri Lankan, Spanish and French tourists all stopped to translate it. Japanese and Korean tourists took photo after photo (thanks to Kimsun Mi for the shots). One guy stopped, said “Life’s not like that!” and marched off. Another said “Avoid drama queens — my sentiments exactly!” One Rastafarian simply said “Genius, man!”
It was a good day. An inspiring day. Next time, I’ll take something comfortable to sit on.
Learnings
→ Don’t be afraid to try new things
→ Don’t be afraid to work in public
→ Don’t be afraid to work upside down
Charity
Three charities have auctioned posters for fundraising: The Rainbow House, QSA and Art Against Knives. There’s not many copies of the original posters left but if you’re involved with a charity, or know someone who is, and would like a batch please get in touch via email. Giclée reproduction prints are available here.
