Look at the two pictures on this page.
Can you see the problem? I can.
I'm not the only one (thanks for pointing this out, Will).
You know, there are ways to reach an audience without pandering to shamelessly ripping off someone else's art.
I'm looking at you, Nike.
I know I'm the last one to harp on this subject, since a large majority of my humor is lifted.
But, I'm not profiting from said unoriginality...plus, I've proven to show some creative ideas a time or two. At least, I hope so, since technically, my job is in creative services.
I put it to you, herr reader: Take one step forward if you're capable of producing original thought.
Not so fast, Hollywood.
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Addendum: Nike Pulls Major Threat Ad, Issues Apology
Below is the apology in full:
June 27, 2005
To: Minor Threat, Dischord Records and fans of both
Re: Major Threat East Coast Tour Poster
Nike Skateboarding sincerely apologizes for the creation of a tour poster inspired by Minor Threat's album cover. Despite rumors being circulated, Wieden & Kennedy and Odopod had nothing to do with the creation of this tour poster and should not be held accountable. To set the record straight, Nike Skateboarding's "Major Threat" Tour poster was designed, executed and promoted by skateboarders, for skateboarders. All of Nike employees responsible for the creation of the tour flyer are fans of both Minor Threat and Dischord Records and have nothing but respect for both.
Minor Threat's music and iconographic album cover have been an inspiration to countless skateboarders since the album came out in 1984. And for members of the Nike Skateboarding staff, this is no different. Because of the album's strong imagery and because our East Coast tour ends in Washington, DC, we felt that it was a perfect fit. This was a poor judgment call and should not have been executed without consulting Minor Threat and Dischord Records.
We apologize for any problems this may have caused, and want to make very clear that we have no relationship with the members of Minor Threat, Dischord Records and they have not endorsed our products.
Every effort has been made to remove and dispose of all flyers (both print and digital). Again, Nike Skateboarding sincerely apologizes to Minor Threat and Dischord Records.
Sincerely,
Nike Skateboarding
Unfortunately, Nike still gets what they and every corp wants in the end: attention and press. Ultimately, they'll come out a winner in all this.
A sad state, indeed.
