[quote style=”boxed”]I’m especially inspired by nature—from the smallest bug that I can capture with my macro lens, to the universe. I love keeping up with the latest scientific discoveries, and often incorporate outer-space imagery into my personal artwork.[/quote]
Ean Mering is an Executive Partner and has been the Senior Creative Producer at Pomegranate (aka POM8) since the company’s inception. During his tenure, he has proven himself to be a leader in both creative execution and transforming clients’ visions into reality. He has applied his expertise in graphic design, interactive digital motion and other digital media formats to create world-class marketing and branding campaigns for Fortune 500 companies including Google, Pepsi, Nestle and many more. Prior to Pomegranate, Ean worked at Dailey and Associates and Springbox (DG Network), where he created branding, web media and print interactive campaigns for clients such as Disney, Toyota and Intuit. Ean’s extensive expertise, dedication to high-quality work and commitment to mastering new technologies have earned him the right to be considered one of the best in his industry.
What are you working on right now?
I’m working on four Flash banners for Pomegranate client YouTube. This Trojan-sponsored campaign is a contest to find the best Emcee in the US. The grand prize winner will be awarded $5,000 and get to appear on stage with the Ludacris. I’m also coordinating the activities of the rest of the creative team, which include a variety of YouTube brand channels, corporate presentations and live event concept drawings.
3 trends that excite you?
Tech Trend: Augmented reality. There are so many exciting applications for both business and art.
Education Trend: Self-teaching. If you’re disciplined enough, you can master tons of new skills and technology through easily accessible online resources or books.
Food Trend: Weekly home delivery of locally grown organic fruits and vegetables. Everything tastes great—and you don’t have to leave the house. It’s perfect for work-at-home-aholics.
How do you bring ideas to life?
I start by sketching a rough concept on a 5.5” x 8.5” pad I keep next to my computer. I try and understand the logical, sub-conscious, visual, and social impact of the design/idea I’m creating. I rip out the pages of my design book and stack them up into a big pile. I look at them over and over again, testing the design/mock/idea. With a little time it’s easier to see what was inspired and what needs to be kept locked in the closet. I’m my own toughest critic and at the end of the day, it’s critical that I create art that people can connect to.
What inspires you?
I’m especially inspired by nature—from the smallest bug that I can capture with my macro lens, to the universe. I love keeping up with the latest scientific discoveries, and often incorporate outer-space imagery into my personal artwork.
What is one mistake you’ve made, and what did you learn from it?
Early in my career, I would over-promise clients to get the contract. Then I’d find myself tackling massive challenges and not being properly equipped to meet the match. I’ve learned to focus on what I do well and offer those services to clients who need them. Based on this simple approach, I’ve seen a tremendous amount of success in the last five years, and have gotten to focus on what I enjoy doing.
What is one business idea that you’re willing to give away to our readers?
Keep learning. I continually devote myself to studying new software programs and business practices. I buy tons of books, and I love Lynda.com. Since technology evolves so quickly, you need to be really proactive in order to stay on the cutting edge.
What is one book that you’d recommend to our community and why?
I recently read HTML 5 Up and Running. HTML 5 is a critical new technology that’s changing the way that web media is produced. I highly recommend the book for any web developer.
What is one piece of software that helps you bring ideas to life?
I just started getting really into Google SketchUp, and it’s helping me to bring ideas to life in a new, multi-dimensional way.
Who would you love to see interviewed on IdeaMensch?
Aaron Bundschuh, Partner / COO at Adaptdev
Nazanin Arandi, Art Director at Ogilvy & Mather LA
Joe Hajek, Art Director, Pomegranate
What’s the most underrated element in building a successful career?
Dressing the part. In the web business, where so many people work at home or casual office environments, it’s easy to wear sweats or jeans every day… or, let’s be honest, pajamas. But dressing well not only makes a positive impression on potential clients and business associates, it makes you feel confident.
What are your hobbies?
I love cooking and photography. I make a mean miso-glazed butterfish, and I’m always looking for new subjects to capture with my Nikon D90.
Connect:
www.pom8.com/ean-mering
Mario Schulzke is the Founder of ideamensch, which he started a decade ago to learn from entrepreneurs and give them a platform for their ideas.