Capitol Communicator is running a series featuring in-depth profiles of communicators in the mid-Atlantic. In this “Up Close and Personal” profile, we feature Jean-Pierre Bovie. Photography for Capitol Communicator’s profile series is by Cade Martin. Wardrobe styling by Pascale Lemaire for THE Artist Agency; and hair and makeup was by Patti D Nelson and Janice Kinigopoulos for THE Artist Agency.
Jean-Pierre, please provide us a short bio.
My career has bounced me around the country to big agencies and little ones and after nearly 20 years in the biz I’ve finally decided to strike out on my own into the wild world of freelance (jpbovie.com). I’ve also been devoting time to creating a small DC agency dedicated to bringing the best talent together to help fearless clients stand out in the sea of same. More to come on this note to come soon. In the meantime keep an eye out for dreadnought-agency.com for more info.
What are the things you are most proud of?
Not letting grass grow under my feet and not taking the well traveled path.
Who are your personal role models?
Gosh, I have many. First and foremost are my parents for their work ethic, genuine humanity and their appreciation of art and craft. My brother-in-law, who encouraged me to get into the business, has always been my compass of decency, generosity and wit in advertising. The late Mike Hughes at the Martin Agency who was more like a coach than a boss inspired those around him to do their best work. He was a warm, generous man who cherished creativity.
Did your role models offer professional advice that helped you in your career?
I’ve been incredibly lucky in my career to have been surrounded by some of the nicest and most talented people in advertising, each of whom I’ve learned something from. The thing that has rubbed off on me the most if the belief that working with good souls is the recipe for making great work.
What professional advice do you have for others?
Be kind. Be silly. Never take yourself too seriously. Pay it forward. Be passionate. Be genuine.
What’s on your Spotify and Pandora playlists?
I’m in love with early ska and punk from The Specials to The Clash to The Misfits, but the likes of Future Islands, TV on the Radio and Phantogram are always in high rotation.
What’s your favorite restaurant?
In D.C., hands down Slipstream. Otherwise I’ve been very impressed with Big Bear and my good ol’standby Bistro Du Cion.
Is there anything else you would like us to know about you?
I’m all about family, discovery, travel and water. I’m a West Coaster at heart but love the East Coast perspective though the lens of DC. The Good the Bad and the Ugly is the greatest movie ever made. Owned a ukulele for years but still don’t know how to play it. I love spicy food. There is a special place in my heart for stinky cheese. I’m a lifelong San Francisco Giants fan (it’s fine that we lost nearly a 100 games this season). One day soon I hope to trek across Iceland on foot.
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