Park Pictures has signed director J.M. “Jason” Harper for commercial representation in the U.S. and U.K. A director and documentarian, Harper applies a multi-hyphenate approach to directing, bringing talents in cinematography, directing, composing, and editing to his craft.
Harper's elevated understanding of the heartfelt storytelling process rings true in projects for clients such as Facebook, My Brother’s Keeper, Google, Bud Light and more. Along the way he has earned awards and accolades from the Sundance Film Festival, The Webby Awards, Tribeca Film Festival and Vimeo Staff Picks.
Harper has edited four feature documentaries, including A Kid from Coney Island (Netflix) and Down a Dark Stairwell (PBS), about the police murder of Akai Gurley. He is currently in-progress on the upcoming Kanye West feature documentary Jeenyuhs (Time Studios), and is editing a docu series based on the book "How Music Got Free" (AppleTV).
“It’s very exciting when a director like Jason Harper comes into your life,” said Jackie Kelman Bisbee, Park Pictures’ co-founder and executive producer. “Both personally and professionally, his ideals and vision align perfectly with Park Pictures. He’s a prolific storyteller whose attention to detail–whether it be in documentary or narrative films–makes the seemingly insignificant into something profoundly powerful. His ability to immerse himself fully into the stories he’s crafting makes him a standout. Jason understands the full scope of advertising and filmmaking, from inception of the idea through post, that makes him a special talent. Jason fully understands the importance of creative collaboration and we’re excited to work with him on short form and long form projects.”
Harper added, “My admiration of Park Pictures began with the ingenious work of Lance Acord and Chivo Lubezki. The company’s interest in profound storytelling reflects in its roster of directors who see filmmaking as a high calling. As an EP, Jackie’s producing instinct and passion for humanity speaks for itself in the work she’s created over the last two decades. With the intent to break new creative ground, I’m humbled and enthusiastic to join forces with Lance, Jackie and the incredibly talented Park Pictures team.”
Raised in proximity to the cornfields of Rockford, Illinois, Harper learned how to wield a camera by making visually driven documentaries in Berlin, Senegal, and across the Americas. In his spare time, he teaches 16mm/35mm cinematography at a cinema arts non-profit called Mono No Aware. Prior to joining Park, Harper had been handled in the U.S. ad market by production company Hound. He resides in Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn, with his cat, named Miles Davis.
The Many Hires Jeremiah Wassom As Group Creative Director
Independent agency The Many has added Jeremiah Wassom as group creative director.
Wassom most recently worked a decade at Deutsch LA where, as SVP/creative director, he led the Taco Bell account and won new business for the agency. His agency past also includes AKQA and TBWAChiatDay. His creative work has touched the QSR, video games, automotive, fashion, and culture brand sectors. He also served eight years with the United States Marine Corps.
“Throughout his career, Jeremiah has helmed work that has not only made me personally jealous but has consistently pushed brands to show up in memorable and innovative ways,” said Josh Paialii, head of creative at The Many. “One look at his body of work and you will see his passion for storytelling and craft has raised the bar for entire categories, driving participation with many brands’ most loyal fans. Beyond being a world-class creative director and maker, Wassom is a proven team player and strategic thought leader. He’ll be a great addition to the leadership team at The Many working across all accounts. His role will be immediately felt as he guides and supports each of the creative leads in the department.”
A 20-year creative with agency, brand, and freelance experience, Wassom has forged a creative approach which focuses on crafting engaging connections rather than simply make ads. He sees the need for advertising to mean more, not simply do more.
The Many believes that true business growth is made possible by harnessing the power of participation and partners with brands to forge deeper connections with consumers, cultivate trust and loyalty, and maximize marketing spend and execution. The agency is built around a flexible model that offers a suite of capabilities, including... Read More