Canadians Create, Episode 6: Shortstop and the Power of Local Creativity

​​​​StartWell, in partnership with Little Black Book (LBB) and the Institute of Canadian Agencies (ICA), has launched the sixth episode of its original podcast series, ‘Canadians Create’. Designed to bring to life the ICA’s ‘Brands Need More Canada’ manifesto, the series focuses on highlighting conversations with agencies and marketers, showcasing best-in-class examples of Canadian creative work in the process.

This week’s edition marks a few firsts for the series. Not only does it feature the show’s inaugural remote guests, with Nova Scotia-based agency Shortstop being the point of focus, but it’s also includes the client in the conversation, with photographer Aaron McKenzie Fraser taking the time to explore the creation of promotional campaign ‘Sketch Harbour’ with podcast producer and host, Qasim Virjee.

Featuring Sam Archibald, creative director and co-owner of Shortstop alongside Aaron, the episode breaks down the story of how two commercial acquaintances came to create a tourism and social club in a backyard shed, 30 minutes outside of Halifax. Lending insight into the Nova Scotian perspective on artistic direction and design, it not only demonstrates the importance of local creativity, especially in service of preserving heritage buildings and artistic expression, but how people outside of major advertising hubs like Toronto work to get their foot in the door – all of which you can check out below.