TRUTH
GROUNDS US. TENSION PROPELS US.

Hi there, I’m Jon Lazar, the middle child of a Jewish orthodox family, treading the line between tradition and the modern world. If you imagined navigating sibling rivalries was tough, try mingling it with age-old customs and a chaser of MTV. It’s not just a balancing act; it's a crash course in disruption, served with a side of latkes.

In my early days at FIT, I found a way to slip into a senior portfolio class at Cliff Freeman & Partners, even though I was just a freshman. For three years, I audited those classes, soaking up all the wisdom and getting the occasional side-eye. Even with zero academic credit on offer, I stuck with it, because to me, advertising wasn't just a degree; it was my passion.

I catapulted into the advertising world, landing at Ogilvy and Deutsch LA, where AMEX and VW were my proving grounds. There, I cut my teeth making nationally-acclaimed work, converting coffee into ideas, and ideas into ads. You might say, I’ve turned caffeination into an art form.

As a roving Freelance Creative Director and Art Director, I’ve plied my craft at the best small boutique shops and big-name agencies. My work tour includes Barton F. Graf, 72andSunny, Johannes Leonardo, BBDO, and Leo Burnett, where I've navigated different waters, scaled unique challenges, and, yes, used their fancy coffee machines.

Throughout these experiences, I've learned the power of truth and tension. They've driven my career, my work, and most of my life decisions. Truth grounds us, tension propels us, and I've found that the dance between the two is where the magic happens. The journey's been a wild ride and, I'm buckled up for more.

Recognition:
Cannes, One Show, D&AD, ADDY, Effies, AdWeek, Communication Arts, Engadget, CMYK Magazine