Advertising as Art

Allstate: Back to Basics, Leo Burnett, Chicago

This ad is art to me because it evokes emotions and feelings. Dennis Haysbert, who many including myself know as "The President" in the TV show 24, has a very commanding voice and comes off very powerful and trustworthy in 24 and in all the Allstate commercials. The editing is very powerful and spot on with the simple piano in the background. It reminds us all about the simple things in life, and that in tough times to go back to the basics and be thankful for what you have. It's not necessarily "beautiful" but it is art to me in that it creates emotions to those that see it.

BMW: It's Only A Car, BDR, London

Well, I have to admit, I am biased because I love BMW's and always have, but their ads have always been so classy and really beautiful to watch also. This ad uses so many textures and sounds and lighting effects to really translate the features of the car into an artful form. I really like how at the end it highlights the shape of the body of the car and then singles out the dual kidney grilles and the BMW emblem on the hood to further explain that its not just a car. I've always thought of fashion and cars as very artistic design fields and you can tell that BMW wants to translate this passion to consumers.

Louis Vuitton: Where Will Life Take You?, Ogilvy, Paris

This commercial has some very cinematic elements: the fog at the beginning, the subtle text, even the placement of the text with the man's head in between. Louis Vuitton is a very well established brand most well-known for its high-priced leather goods. But, in this commercial, they bring the focus back to the human journey that is life. I think they are also saying that what Louis Vuitton is as a company is history. A history of long-lasting luggage and leather goods that have made their own journey from the past into today, and will be there for the long haul with you on your personal journey.

United Colors of Bennetton: White, Black, Yellow, In House Advertising

I'm not a fan of United Colors of Benetton's clothing or their ads, but this one I thought drove home the point that they are ultimately trying to make. No matter your race or background, we all have hearts, we all are united as people. If this was a photograph in an art gallery, I would probably buy it, I think the message is powerful and clear. No need to read through the lines.