In Conversation with Nicholas Bell

What are you working on?

AUFI.COM and a Covid-related response called “Now Needs New” – basically a super-group of the best agencies in the world have come together to offer their skills pro-bono to brands-in-need. The world needs optimism and they’re bringing it in spades.

What have been your daily work habits whilst WFH?

Mainly eating hummus … Also been using the app Calm to set me up for the day with one of its 10-minute meditations. I’m usually really crap about that sort of stuff but its evidently crucial to top and tail your day with some sort of ‘commute’ – that’s mine. Really enjoying it.

Do you think the current situation will change how you do what you do?

Paradoxically, I think I’ll definitely take more time to work from home in the future. I’ve realised our business can clearly function remotely and whilst I can’t wait to be back with our team, I’m keen to explore some longer trips away, merging work and travel a little more. We’ll see. Possibly wishful.

What’s inspired you whilst isolating?

Today –  Ryuichi Sakamoto. Yesterday – a friend’s handling of grief. Last week Paul Thomas Anderson and Thom Yorke’s micro-film Anima (on Netflix). Everyday – the NHS.

Anything you would recommend reading or listening to?

“The Man Who Planted Trees” by Jean Giono. Short story sorcery.

What’s the last picture you took on your phone?

Screengrab of a sandwich I saw on Instagram. I can’t get over it actually.

What are you looking forward to on the other side?

Eating out. I’m keeping a tally on my ‘missed meals’ and going to have them back-to-back. Mildreds. Llewellyn’s. Rochelle Canteen. Luca. The Begging Bowl. Kricket. Wicked places and they’re suffering now so I can’t wait to roll up.

What’s your favourite word or saying?
Up.

Who would you most like to share a meal with?
My Grand Parents. The wisest.