ArtClass has added Aisha Schliessler to its roster of directorial talent. This marks the first official U.S. signing for Schliessler, a third-generation filmmaker. She continues to be repped in the U.K. by You Are Here.
Schliessler’s work emphasizes the fascinating characters at the heart of her films, grounding these stories in authentic emotional depth and a sense of playfulness. Schliessler’s experience as an actor has equipped her to thoughtfully guide performances from a place of compassion and understanding for the craft. Her recent commercial projects include large-scale social campaigns for Peloton and Lululemon and the branded short film “Rhinestone Blue,” made in partnership with FUJIFILM. “Rhinestone Blue” earned several accolades, including a Telly Award and a Cannes Corporate Media & TV Award.
Other narrative shorts directed and written by Schliessler include “Sticky,” “The End,” “Don’t Move,” and “The Call” starring Juno Temple. Schliessler has also directed music videos for Liza Owen’s song “Josie,” “The Takeover” by Aimee deBeer, and “Old Cadogan Hotel” by Adrian Glynn.
“It was important to me to join a company that understands me as an artist and where I feel creatively seen,” said Schliessler about signing with ArtClass. “When I first met with [managing director] Kirsten Arongino and rep Nikki Weiss-Goldstein, I felt they truly grasped my style and what I bring to the table as a director, which immediately confirmed that ArtClass was the right fit for me. I’ve long admired the incredible talent on the roster at ArtClass, so being invited to join was both a tremendous compliment and an easy decision. What sets this company apart is its exceptional team and passionate work ethic. Even in the short time we’ve collaborated, I’ve been consistently impressed with their drive, enthusiasm, and supportive attitude.”
Weiss, ArtClass’ Midwest rep, added, “Meeting Aisha through the Free The Work mentoring program was a pivotal moment for me. Her mastery of lighting and art direction is unparalleled, a testament to her upbringing under the guidance of her father, the award-winning DP Tobias Schliessler. She inherited not just skill but a passion for the craft, honed from growing up on film sets. Aisha’s work is distinctive, always exuding a unique vision and an elevated quality that makes it immediately recognizable. ArtClass and I are honored to support her journey and be a meaningful part of her trajectory of what will be a very long successful career.”