Gabs Samame
Art Director at Neon
Santa Monica, United States

Gabs Samame Interview(s)

PHNX Jury Interview 2024

Why did you think it was important to join the PHNX jury this year?
It was important for me to be a part of the PHNX jury this year because it allowed me to contribute to recognizing and celebrating exceptional creativity and innovation in our industry. I had a chance to play a bigger role than just being a spectator and actively contribute to the process.

Being a part of the PHNX jury also provided me with a platform to network and collaborate with other esteemed professionals, fostering my individual and collective growth. I was exposed to diverse perspectives and creative approaches, which helped me grow personally and professionally. As a creative, I like to stay up-to-date with industry trends and learn from other creatives. Being a part of something that recognizes the hard work and dedication of creatives in our industry is an honor. I'm thrilled to join the jury and excited to contribute to the cause.
What do you think of our hybrid jury, featuring creatives but also strategists, clients and people from all corners of the industry?
I think having a hybrid jury promotes a comprehensive and inclusive evaluation, contributing to a more well-rounded and impactful recognition of excellence. It acknowledges the interconnectedness of every department part of the work, which can lead to a more nuanced celebration of outstanding work in the industry. The inclusion of creatives, strategists, designers, producers, and clients on the jury ensures an understanding of its strategic implications and the full creative process. This gives a holistic assessment of entries and adds depth to the evaluation process by incorporating diverse experiences, insights, and expertise.
What do you think of the idea of free entry until the shortlist stage?
I believe that removing budget limitations in the first instance can open up numerous opportunities for creatives and agencies to showcase their exceptional work. This can unlock a world of creativity, leading to diverse talents being celebrated and unparalleled feats of innovation and progress. Overall, this can result in an impact on the industry.
How would you define the perfect PHNX Awards winner?
I would describe the perfect PHNX Awards winner as someone who is a visionary and whose project showcases a dynamic fusion of innovation, creativity, craft, and strategic vision. Their work should go beyond conventional aesthetics and deliver groundbreaking results. Should show how the creative concepts align with strategic objectives, demonstrating a purpose-driven approach having a meaningful impact.
What is having the biggest impact on creative trends at the moment?
Artificial intelligence is having a significant impact on creative trends, causing a major shift. I see the relationship between AI and human creativity as a collaborative one, where technology supports and speeds up the creative process while human imagination remains crucial in devising new ideas and innovations and adding a layer of emotional depth to the final product. This synergy has opened up new possibilities and is shaping a new era of creative collaboration where AI complements and enhances human-driven innovation.
Who would you nominate as your two or three “creatives of the year”?
I really like what Gian Carlo Lanfranco and Rolando Cordova have been doing at L&C NYC. As well as Frank Garcia's and Mo Said's work at Mojo Supermarket.
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