The past few weeks have witnessed the passing of two Sydney-based creative icons.
One Centre was a relatively recent addition to the Australian creative scene, distinguished by a strong desire to create and grow brands on a global scale and seemingly driven with great passion. Rapid growth, stellar ambitions and a craving to employ the cream of Australia’s available creative talent despite the continuing financial gloom, sounded an ominous warning to those who have experienced previous downturns. It is all too easy to criticise those businesses that have tried and not succeeded. One Centre however should be both a warning and an inspiration to all creative businesses of the difficulties that can befall the bold and the brave, but also what can be achieved with high ambition and vision underpinned by a talented team. The business is presently in administration and waiting for a cashed up suitor to run the ruler over the figures and the prospects. I wish them well.
The well known and well respected creative icon Billy Blue is closing its doors after what must be 30 years in business. When I first arrived in Sydney in 1980 from recession-torn England and willingly immersed myself in vibrant new surroundings, I noticed one day a beautifully designed free magazine called Billy Blue, the likes of which I had never seen before. Its wide acceptance, high recognition and ability to integrate fine words and inspired design, succeeded in establishing the name and spawned the Billy Blue empire, comprising creative business, design school and hotel school. What a great shame it has gone. An important chapter in Sydney creative culture has been consigned to the history pages. My regards to all therein who have pushed forward Australian design boundaries. Thank you for the inspiration.
A blight on this recession. May it end soon.
Tony Heywood is an international branding consultant and founder of Heywood Innovation in Sydney and co-founder of BrandSynergy in Singapore.
View some of Heywood’s work on www.heywood.com.au
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