My Creative Hero: Jessica Hische

For more than 13 years, creative director Lydia Choi has been collaborating with brilliant minds in the advertising industry. Passionate about diversity and women's leadership, she brings breakthrough ideas to life for clients like Jackson Hole Travel & Tourism and the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation, among others. When she's not busy crafting and creating, Lydia loves immersing herself in outdoor adventures and exploring the beauty of nature with her family. 

LBB> Who would you say is your creative hero? 

Lydia> When finding inspiration, I usually look to real-life experiences and the people I encounter. But someone who comes to mind is Jessica Hische. She's a fantastic lettering artist who has played a pivotal role in the renaissance of modern lettering and more recently, an author known for her unique style and inspirational approach.

I love her book Tomorrow I'll Be Brave, which I've enjoyed reading with my child. It sparks confidence in children’s lives to be brave, curious, and adventurous. It also opens the space to achieve that tomorrow if they didn’t see that in themselves today.   

LBB> How long has she been important to you and what are your first memories of meeting her or coming across her work?

Lydia> Oh, I'll never forget the time I crossed paths with Jessica at the AIGA Minnesota design camp more than 10 years ago. She was the top speaker I’d earmarked for the day. Back then, I was all about lettering and obsessed with the art of making words look beautiful.  

LBB> If it’s someone you personally know, how did you get to know her and how has your relationship evolved over the years? If you don’t know her, how did you go about finding to learn more about her and her work?

Lydia> While at the design camp, somehow Jessica and I found ourselves on stage together rocking out to Backstreet Boys karaoke. It was a hilarious and memorable moment. What struck me about Jessica was her down-to-earth nature. She didn't put up any walls. She was just real and that's what truly inspired me.

Following Jessica Hische on social media has been a treat. She's published books, designed for the Queen’s 90th birthday and created stamps. It's nearly impossible to go about life without coming across her work. Her talent and creativity are everywhere, and it's hard not to be inspired by her contributions to the creative world.

LBB> Why is she such an inspiration to you? 

Lydia> Her creativity is unlimited, and her talent is unique. Her remarkable ability to navigate the beautiful chaos of motherhood while pursuing her creative efforts is inspiring. As an artist, woman, partner and mother, Jessica effortlessly combines personal and professional achievements. Her work-life balance and unwavering creativity are a source of delightful surprise and inspiration.     

LBB> How does she influence you in your approach to your creative work? 

Lydia> Following her authentic nature and talent has left a lasting impact on me. It reminds me to prioritise authenticity and stay true to myself in my creative journey. Seeing how her work seamlessly aligns with her ethos inspires me to seek a similar connection in my creative process. Her influence emphasises embracing our unique qualities to find true inspiration.

LBB> What piece or pieces of her work do you keep coming back to and why? 

Lydia> Jessica Hishce's Daily Drop Cap series is a testament to her boundless creativity. Somehow, she has crafted the entire alphabet, each in a unique and captivating way multiple times.