Nexus Studios has appointed Alex Jenkins and Deborah Casswell as executive creative directors of its immersive department.
Jenkins and Casswell will have oversight of creative across the company’s immersive output in London and Los Angeles. The studio, alongside its film, TV and branded content fare, is known for innovative work creating award-winning experiences for the likes of Google, Marvel, Niantic and creative collaborations including Childish Gambino, CERN and artist JR.
During her time as creative director at Nexus Studios, Casswell has collaborated with leading brands. Projects include a storytelling installation at the World Economic Forum celebrating the positive ways Google Cloud AI is being used to serve communities, a poignant game for UNICEF designed to teach children about their human rights, and a meaningful Metaverse for VR that is still in the works. She will continue to lead R&D projects in eyewear and the Metaverse that explore ways to bring true value to people’s lives. Prior to joining Nexus Studios, Casswell was creative director at Media Arts Lab. She is also a founding partner of the ADCAN awards, and an experienced speaker in the creative circle championing immersive technology for purpose-driven content.
Jenkins’ passion for interactive storytelling ensures he places the protagonist and their motivations at the center of every experience, whether that be character or user. Bringing an exceptional level of craft and detail to every brief he meets, he takes a holistic approach to projects ensuring every experience has meaning and contextual value. His work is always carefully considered and informed by his multidisciplinary background in graphic design, illustration and character animation. During his time at Nexus he has led some of our most pioneering interactive pieces, including the BAFTA-nominated collaboration with Google Arts & Culture telling the story of the birth and evolution of the universe, delivered Marvel’s first AR experience for The Eternals, creating a regenerating coral reef to highlight the plight of the world’s oceans and turning a UNESCO world-heritage site into a virtual playground where visitors interact with members of the Joseon Dynasty. Jenkins has also received industry recognition from Cannes Lions, The One Show, The Webby’s and The Art Directors Club, amongst others.
Chris O’Reilly, co-founder and chief creative officer of Nexus Studios, said, “In Alex and Deborah we’ve found two creative minds who combine a passion for great conceptual thinking and thoughtful, quality design. They are incredibly knowledgeable in interaction and immersive tech but they want to make the work that moves beyond novelty and emotionally changes people. That’s very much in keeping with Nexus’ ethos and the previous work we are most proud of. We’re excited to have their incredible combined energy and brilliance to guide the immersive team.”
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