"The power of great ideas is limitless" – a Q&A with Pentagram's Harry Pearce
Harry Pearce, White Pencil ambassador and partner at design consultancy, Pentagram, on why pro-bono work is a necessity and the power of creativity.
Why have you chosen to support the White Pencil?
The power of creativity should be encouraged in the pursuit of good, and for that to be at the heart of D&AD is a profoundly important thing.
We are what we create, the world needs great ideas, the world needs change. D&AD is supporting and highlighting work that is making our world a better place, and I'm very proud to be an ambassador of the White Pencil.
Who or what inspired you to support the White Pencil?
My 19 years of working for the Witness programme, which has been entirely about using creativity in the context of human rights, made me realise just what a great idea the White Pencil is.
Is there a specific campaign for an established cause that you have used as a source of inspiration?
The Cambodian ‘and babies too’ posters.
What do you think the White Pencil could achieve?
It can really help people understand the power of creativity, not just for commercial gain.
We all understand the power of a great creative idea, and to see that played out for a wonderful cause is really how things should be.
At their most potent, the creative industries have the power to change the way people think. With this is mind, how can the creative communities effect real and positive change in the world, and just how much can they achieve?
The power of great ideas is limitless. Couple that with the idea of collaboration and the effect could be substantial.
Social and Environmental Campaigns
Give an example of the most successful social campaign you’ve seen recently.
The Amnesty International posters.
What do creatives or agencies gain from undertaking pro-bono work?
Living a creative life is a profound privilege. Undertaking pro-bono work is a necessary balance and payback for that privilege.
The whole balance of my creative life is driven from being able to use my design skills in the human rights arena alongside more commercial projects. I'm sure its the same for many designers, writers and film makers alike.
Advice
What makes a successful global campaign?
Simple ideas can be universally applicable.
Based on your own experience, what advice would you give to those tackling the White Pencil brief?
Give up ego and design from your heart.
