London
Lee Coomber
Creative Director, Europe and the Middle East
Lee’s body of work is among the most highly decorated in the international design community.
His clients have included GE, PWC, IKEA and Unilever (Lee is the designer behind the famous U icon). The combination of his classical training in theatre and graphic design coupled with his insightful business approach has earned Lee a reputation as an innovator and a problem solver. Fun fact: Lee is a qualified NHS mindfulness cognitive behavioral therapist, which can only be a good thing when you lead a team of creative consultants.
- What is a little-known fact about Lippincott?
In the UK, all Coca-Cola ads carry the words “Copyright Coca-Cola Lippincott ribbon.”
- Since you began your career, what’s changed the least about the industry?
Ideas are still the most precious ingredient.
- Have you made any significant corkscrews in life?
Looking back, it was dyslexia that put me on the path to pictures, and near-death from pneumonia that made me realize life. It’s fascinating how weaknesses often end up being the most significant life turning points.
Creativity is like love — it needs spreading, nurturing and celebrating.
- Do you have a mantra or a favorite quote?
Enjoy life and all it has to offer. That actually is my mantra — it’s much harder to live by than it might look at first sight.
- What is your favorite artist?
Philosopher Alan Watts, who said, “Imagine if you could do anything, be everywhere, for eternity. What would you most want? A surprise of course.”
- Do you have any inventions rolling around in your head?
Loads, but hey — I make a living out of this sort of stuff. They’re not for giving away.
- What’s your favorite ambient sound?
A long gravel drive.
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Education
B.A. Graphic Design (Honors), London College of Printing
Foundation, University of Arts London, Wimbledon School of Art -
Work Experience
Creative Director, Wolff Olins
Creative Director, Addison
Designer, Pan Picador -
Awards
D&AD
Design Effectiveness -
Other Career Achievements
Qualified, NHS Mindfulness Cognitive Behavioural Therapist
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Insights
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Design Doing
Over the last 70 years of design here at Lippincott, we’ve learned that the doing is just as important as the thinking. In this piece, we lay out the precepts and principles of the craft itself — the meticulous exercise of converting strategies to beautiful, simple and meaningful work.
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