Chris Graves of Team One on 'Ideas First'

Understanding priorities is key

Chris is currently chief creative officer of Publicis Groupe’s Team One, focusing on automotive, hospitality and luxury accounts. Clients include Lexus, Ritz Carlton, Marriott, Cathay Pacific Airlines, the RealReal and Barclays Bank. He oversees offices in L.A., Dallas and New York, and serves on the Saatchi worldwide creative board.

Earlier, Chris served at Ogilvy and TBWA/Chiat/Day in New York, as well as TBWA/C/D L.A., on brands like Nissan, Energizer and PlayStation. 

We spent two minutes with Chris to learn more about his background, his creative inspirations and recent work he’s admired. 

Chris, tell us …

Where you grew up, and where you live now. 

I grew up in Huntington Beach, Calif., and currently live in Pacific Palisades, Calif. I have a thing for the ocean.

How you first realized you were creative.

I enjoyed making those annoying science fair projects in elementary school. 

A person you idolized creatively early on.

My grandmother was an art teacher, so I thought it was normal to constantly be making and creating. She was way ahead of her time.

A moment from high school or college that changed your life. 

Walking around the campus at the Art Center College of Design. My mind was blown and I enrolled immediately.

A visual artist or band/musician you admire.

Da Vinci sounds pretentious, but he had a decent portfolio. 

A book, movie, TV show or podcast you recently found inspiring.

I’m sure I’m not the first to recommend The Creative Act by Rick Rubin. And for a nice left-brain compliment, Your Brain on Art by Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross.

One of your favorite creative projects you’ve ever worked on. 

“Sole of UX,” where we launched a Lexus with a set of Nikes at Fashion Week. It was one of those projects that had no roadmap. The creativity was high, but the tenacity to make it happen was even higher.

Someone else’s work that inspired you years ago. 

I’ll go retro in honor of the 25th anniversary of Guinness’ “Surfer.” Holds up to this day. 

Play

Your main strength as a creative person.

Empathy.

Your biggest weakness. 

Easily distracted.

A mentor that helped you navigate the industry.

Lee Clow. He always put ideas first, politics last. He helped me understand priorities.

How you’re paying it forward with the next generation of creatives.

Leading creative bootcamps with The One Club to develop and inspire diverse talent.

What you’d be doing if you weren’t in advertising. 

I’d be making furniture.