Meet Jim Robinson of Crossroads District

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jim Robinson. 

Hi Jim, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I came to KC from Detroit in the fall of 1981. Began my advertising career in 82′ and was recognized for my work at the then KC Art Directors Club and the KC Advertising Club for work I did for the initial KC Jazz Festival in 83, along with other work. That was the catalyst for the rest of my AD career which included the THINKKC campaign and the ONEKC campaign, along with work for almost every genre of advertising and design in the city. I’ve been fortunate to have  garnered 150 awards both locally, regionally, and nationally. A good portion of my work from 2008 on was for a fashion client in New York peppered with local work..

After photo directing for decades, I started shooting fine art photography when Covid hit.  It was something I had complete control over and has given me great pleasure.  I’m currently working on my third show. I love creating images. There’s always a way to see something in whatever you’re looking at. I post at least one image daily to my instagram, rockill43.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?

There are always struggles. I don’t think one makes any real progress or growth without any. I believe it’s what drives us. I’ve had a few marriages and client disagreements along the way. All part of the journey. Like Bette Davis said in “All about Eve”, “Fasten your seatbelts, it’s going to be a bumpy ride”. But well worth it.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in solving problems for the clients that engage me by constructing campaigns that resonate with the audience. My work is always based on connecting emotionally with the viewer so they understand on a visceral level.

There are a number of campaigns that I am proud of. Actually, I don’t think there are any I’m not proud of. My work is extremely important to me. I guess I might be known for not compromising my work. I have used the phrase, “I would rather die on my sword than yours”, many times with clients.

What sets me apart? Not really sure. I never compromise on my beliefs. My work is very personal. I always feel the obligation to produce the best work I can, no matter the budget. If it works, the budgets will come.

What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
I wish I knew. I think the country/world is in a precarious position. Not sure where this is going to take us. But I’ve always been a reactor, and will continue to react to whatever comes.

Contact Info:

• Email: jim.robinsonad@gmail.com
• Website: www.theasseen.com www.punchworldwide.com
• Instagram: rockill43