Sven BEHRENS

What was your very first job? What does it feel like to look back at it now? 

My first job was a pitch for DOUGLAS. It was very intense and complex. I learned a lot even though I struggled as a newby to really understand the processes etc. Luckily the agency won the pitch, so I was quite proud to be a part of it.

Please describe, in your own words, what your current job is and what work it entails.

Since I started working, I always worked on fashion, beauty and lifestyle brands – so that is what I still do. I love working with talented photographers and meeting new people that form a great crew – creating an own-able visual identity for each brand that is unique and exciting.

How did you discover that the creative world is right for you? Was there a time in your life that you credit to this discovery? Which train of events did bring you to where you are today?

I’ve always been creative. Since I was a child I wasn’t really „playing“ but drawing. In school my teachers figured out that I was more talented in art than others… so they encouraged me to pursue something „artistic“. I did all sorts of internships when I was still in school. Photography, prop-builing in a theatre, etc. until I became an intern in an advertising agency when I was 17. I knew instinctively that this is would be the job that I want to work in.

In your constantly growing and expanding industry, how and where do you usually find inspiration to keep your work fresh, innovative and relevant?

I make sure to constantly meet new talents at go-sees, get to know their work and how they are as a person. It’s crucial to not stay with one style, but evolve and go with the time – especially when your work is based on photography and design. 

If you had to pick one piece of work or project that you are most proud of, especially for the creative work and innovation it required rather than its recognition or industry success, what would it be?

A couple of years ago I had the chance to work on the new brand identity and several product/campaign relaunches for Aqua di Parma (LVMH). Together with a big team of talented people we dove into the rich history of the brand and created a new look and language that stands for timeless elegance and quality. I still love looking at the results and being reminded what it took to get there.