The strength of Gawker Media lies in the diversity of our talents and the fluid collaboration between team members. We Are Gawker Media gives you an inside look at who we are and what we do behind the scenes.
In this edition of We Are Gawker Media, I spoke with Gawker Advertising Designer, Justin Cross about his recent travels, love for bowling and more!
Tell us a little about yourself, where'd you go to school?
I'm from a small town in Texas. Born and raised. Went to undergrand at University of North Texas before going to portfolio school at Miami Ad School.
You recently went back to Texas for a quick visit. What's your favorite thing you can find in NYC that you can't at home and vice versa?
Oh where to begin. My favorite thing about NYC is that there is always something going on— never a dull moment. You're only a train ride (or two) away from pretty much anything you can imagine. The things I actually think I miss the most about TX are the outdoor activities— hunting, fishing, boating on the lake, camping, etc. You can do that here, but it just takes a lot more work. And course, I miss the women. You really can't beat a good 'ole Southern Belle.
What is your favorite sports team?
Really I'm die hard about pretty much any Texas team (aside from the Texas A&M... boo Aggies!). I know NY'ers don't like to hear it, but the Cowboys are my favorite sports team. What can I say, I'm from Texas — football runs through our veins. Well...that and BBQ. And let's not forget about those World Champion, Mavericks!
What was the last book you read?
The last one I think I finished was Rant by Chuck Palahniuk. Have you read that before? Filthy. And awesome. But I'm currently reading Those Guys Have All the Fun: Inside the World of ESPN and the 7th and final Harry Potter book (yes, I'm huge fan).
There's nothing wrong with liking Harry Potter! So, how do you get your creative juices flowing?
I find it easiest to be creative when you surround yourself with things that inspire you. For me, that's music, the outdoors, food, and other people. Really anywhere that I'm not required to think is a good environment for creativity.
What's the highest you've ever bowled?
256. It was really one of those times where you can't even believe it yourself. I have a feeling I'll never replicate it, but not for the lack of trying— I love to bowl!
If you could have just one super power, what would it be?
Teleportation. I love to travel.
Where do you go to escape work and responsibility?
The red room— I kid. If I can, I like to just get outta town. Sometimes the city can really overwhelm me, so to escape I get on a train, bus or plane and take a quick trip— even if only for a night. If getting outta town isn't an option, getting lost in the music always helps me escape.
And what type music is that?
Oh, bands like The Decemberists, Motion City Soundtrack, Lucerno, Against Me!, and Interpol.
