Lisa HENNESSY

What was your very first job? 

I started working in a restaurant when I was 16, in the small town in Germany where I grew up nobody cared. At that time, I wanted to be a professional show jumper though, or a fashion designer. 

Please describe, in your own words, what your job is and what work it entails.   I work with emerging brands that want to make a difference in the world but can’t quite afford a big agency yet, helping them to think and look like one of the big players. Together we share their story and message in a way that matters and connects with people, be it design, photography or video.

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

I always liked making things by hand, I love texture, materials and craft. And questioning the status quo comes natural to me, so all of this was pretty clear early on and the path itself went from just art to very big, international and commercial to something a lot more meaningful now. Probably because I now care so much more about connection and meaning than shiny awards and such.

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

I love looking at everything. LA is a constant source of inspiration to me. The people, the food, nature, art. I take it all in. And from there I go on feeling and empathy. The work will always be unique when it comes from such a place, I think.

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

I am currently working on a new approach to content, something less superficial and glib, that means a lot to me. And I am also working with a wonderful little brand that supports women in Mexico and fights for a world with no plastic bags, not only do we make really fun work together, but I can see the difference every image makes for her and all the women Junes supports.

Which creative disciplines do you commission most, and are most interested in seeing more of and why? Which of these disciplines are you most be interested in seeing at CONNECTIONS? (ie photo, film, social, experiential, vr, etc)  

I still love print, the experience of holding beautifully crafted paper in my hands will never ceases to amaze me. But I am a firm believer of listening to what a brand really needs to connect with its audience and finding the right means to do so. This can be absolutely anything.