• by Amy Corr , Staff Writer @MediaPostOTL, June 18, 2012

While meeting client deadlines is both exciting and potentially lucrative, sometimes it’s nice to create something that’s free of stress and third-party pressure. In other words, being creative because you can.

That’s the reasoning behind the Carmichael Collective, a project created by Minneapolis-based agency, Carmichael Lynch that houses work that’s free of agendas or feedback.

Dave Damman, Chief Creative Officer of Carmichael Lynch, is the brainchild of the Carmichael Creative. The site is updated regularly with new projects.

“It’s something I’ve always wanted to try within an agency construct,” said Damman. “It’s so easy to share these days, and to create just about anything.  We originally initiated the effort for the agency's 50th anniversary—and for this year only. But then we realized that it was a bigger idea for not just the agency, but the world outside the agency as well."

Currently, nine projects are listed, ranging from outdoor installments and videos to unique products that make you wonder if you’ll be seeing them for sale down the road. “Everyone in the agency contributed, aside from myself. It was a mandate,” said Damman. “I’m trying to maintain my objectivity. But, I certainly have my favorites, and some of them are from the most unexpected individuals. That's the fun part.”

Ever wonder what’s inside a piñata? I’m too busy trying to score Twizzlers and Starbursts to think about its anatomy. But the curious can refer to the piñata anatomy poster to learn how one is packed and what candies comprise certain organs.

Another submission, “Tissue Opera,” combines still photos found when searching for things related to “sneezing” on an image site, accompanied by the booming vocals of an opera singer.

My favorite contribution is the urban plant tags. Oversized plant tags were placed next to stop signs, lampposts, park benches, fire hydrants and mailboxes, each with a description on how to care for them, space them and their estimated growth size.

“No shoes. No shirt. No service.” seems like a play on an LMFAO song. A barefoot, shirtless man is unable to get any cell phone service throughout the city. Finally, he gets a sign, in the form of a posted notice, touting the need for shoes and a shirt to get reception. The video ends with a pantless man sitting in a bar, gabbing on his phone. Where was the sign for personal hygiene? More to the point, where does he keep his wallet?

What is your favorite creative contribution? What would you add to the mix?