Women of The Cre8tors - Jenny Lumpkin
Jenny Lumpkin: The Cre8tors, Co
JENNY LUMPKIN
What inspired you to pursue your career in the creative industry? My grandpa, Richard Lumpkin—an ultimately cool, lifelong ad industry man. His home art studio was a magical wonderland of projects and supplies, and he gave me a desk in there so I could play too. If I tagged along, we'd bop around to drop storyboards off at ad agencies, which were epic buildings that looked like adult playgrounds. I had no idea grown-ups had jobs like this or offices with pets and slides. From the time I was six years old, he made advertising seem like an absolute theme park of color, characters, and creative fun. I was sold.
What does being a woman in this industry mean to you? I want to be part of a change in the culture of advertising. I want to foster genuine relationships, make compelling art, and promote a healthy and sustainable lifestyle.
Can you share a glimpse into your creative process—any rituals, inspirations, or must-have tools? I like to surround myself with creative people who have big ideas. I work on the commercial side all day, but I especially love to hear what inspires people, their process, and what drives them forward in life. That comes in many forms of creative expression, including digital media, fine art, music, movement, gardening, and even cooking. People's unique creative voices fascinate me.
Personally, I love the ritual of painting, usually alone and possibly with a glass (or more!) of wine. As an artist, I’m really inspired by my long-term bestie and deskmate from art school, Jess Elwood, who is now an amazing Creative Director at VMLY&R. His style and approach have always inspired and supported me as an artist since way back when.
How do you hope your work impacts or inspires other women? I strive to be a "lift-as-you-climb" type of leader. When I mentor young women, I want them to grow and be even more successful than me. I hope to leave anyone I encounter in this industry with kindness, encouraging words, and a bit of motivation to step out of their comfort zone and make an impact for themselves and others. I hope to inspire young women to do the same.
What’s a project or piece of work you’re most proud of, and why? Partnering with Dani Jackson-Smith and building The Cre8tors has been one of the biggest achievements of my life. I'm truly building my dream team with many of the people I love and admire in this business. I’m working with the artists and studios I want to work with, alongside clients who respect and value what we are doing. Our growing internal team—Morgan, Adora, and Troy—inspires me to do better every day. We are really creating something that fills me with pride and emotion! Just answering this question is making me weepy.