2 Minutes With … Andrea Serrano Villaverde, Senior AD at MRM

Andrea has been an art director since 2016 at agencies around the globe such as MRM, Ogilvy and Publicis. She’s worked for major brands including Coca-Cola, Microsoft, American Express and Mercedes-Benz.

We spent two minutes with Andrea to learn more about her background, her creative inspirations and recent work she’s admired.

Andrea, tell us …

Where you grew up, and where you live now.

I grew up in the northwest of Spain, where the cloudy skies provided a unique backdrop. I’m currently living in Spain, but will be moving back to New York soon.

How you first realized you were creative.

My creative spark ignited at a young age. I was two years old when I was stacking boxes to reach the candy shelf. That’s when creativity became my superpower.

A person you idolized creatively early on.

My creative idol was always my mom. Her motto: “Impossible N’est pas Français” (“Impossible Isn’t French”) inspired me to push boundaries and think outside the box.

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

When I was in college, I went through a tough period that changed many aspects of my outlook on life. It seemed like a rebirth, which is why I had a phoenix tattooed on my chest and now I see things differently.

A visual artist or band/musician you admire.

Banksy. I find him fascinating. His thought-provoking street art challenges societal norms. Also, his anonymity adds an intriguing layer to his work.

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

I discovered it a while ago, but I still read it from time to time and find it inspiring: Sun Tzu’s Art of War.

Your favorite fictional character.

Alice from Alice in Wonderland. She represents curiosity, creativity, problem-solving, tenacity, courage and a plethora of other traits and behaviors. “I’ve believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast.”

Someone or something worth following in social media.

I can recommend a ton! @jimmydarts, @aquisandrax, @tristaneaton, @emiliogarcia.art…

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

Definitely a campaign we did for Pride with American Express that got me a billboard in Times Square. 

A recent project you’re proud of. 

A Coca-Cola campaign that aimed to trigger the moment in which we free ourselves from tensions and reconnect with our passions after our daily responsibilities. The combination of vibrant imagery and compelling storytelling made it a truly satisfying experience.

Someone else’s work that inspired you years ago.

This ad campaign made me switch my career. It’s called “The Power of the Words.” No words… 

Someone else’s work you admired lately.

Criss Bellini, I think the twist she gives to existing designs is great, and the way she mixes contemporary art with more classic pieces … it’s fascinating. 

Your main strength as a creative person.

I thrive on breaking through conventional boundaries and pushing the limits of what’s possible.

Your biggest weakness.

I used to be a bit of a perfectionist, constantly looking for ideal results. However, I’ve recognized that perfection is subjective. And by accepting this, I’ve been able to create high-quality work while being open to discovery and progress.

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

If I weren’t in advertising, I would likely be a doctor.