Residence: London, UK
Current project(s): Designs for bands Chvrches, The Temper Trap, You Me At Six, Zac Brown Band, Charli XCX, and a few others under the radar at the moment.
Most notable achievements: I was given total creative freedom when I joined Chvrches back in 2012, and we built a show that was not only a great representation of the band’s image, but also could adapt to different size rooms very easily. Recently with Chvrches, we filmed a show at Grand Central Terminal in New York, which was a pretty amazing thing to not only be a part of, but also to design. Also, I have worked with UK rock band You Me At Six for roughly seven years, and it has been an amazing thing to see them develop as a band and being there for them from clubs to theatres to arenas.
When I started in this industry: I started in the industry about seven years ago working for a lighting rental company in High Wycombe, UK (Siyan Ltd) as a summer job.
How I got into this industry: I honestly stumbled into this. While I was at university, I took a summer job at a lighting rental company, not really knowing what to expect other than being able to pay my bills over that period. Within a week, I knew I wanted to be involved in the lighting industry and that, over time, progressed into the design of the whole show from set to production and also the lighting.
Influences: The work of both LeRoy Bennett and Baz Halpin has definitely helped me see a different way of approaching production design. I also take a lot of influence from everything around us when putting a design together. It could be a piece of architecture, nature, art, or even an idea could stem from a movie.
Worst advice I’ve ever heard: I try to surround myself with very positive people, so bad advice rarely comes up, but one of the worst things I think anyone can any advise is, “Just do it. Just go with it,” without thinking about the pros and cons.
Best advice I’ve ever heard: No matter who you meet when you’re at the top, always treat people the same as you never know who you will need on the way out.
My favorite thing about the production industry: Technology is changing how things are done so quickly at the moment that I don’t think I could put my finger on my favorite thing. I do love meeting the extremely diverse range of people who work in our industry and all the others along the way when traveling.
Favorite design/programming/technical trick: I really enjoy experimenting with new technology, especially in the field of visuals, so all of the media servers that are now gearing toward 3D mapping and the different ways they do them 100% has my attention.
Plans for the future: Business-wise, I would like us (my company, Okulus) to move into an office so we can have a space dedicated to us, where we can be as creative as possible and not have to tidy up every night because it’s in one of our kitchens. Looking forward to buying the first house, adopting some dogs, and traveling some more.
Other interests/side gigs: I have spent a lot of the last seven years traveling for work, so when I am home, I really like to catch up with friends and spend time with the lady and enjoy time at home away from the working environment.
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