MATTE: In your time at MATTE, is there a project that you will never forget?
Because I’ve been at MATTE since pretty much the beginning, there are many defining phases; and with each phase there’s probably a project or two that I will take with me. But if I had to pick… one would be the work we put out with Kith.
From BMW to the New York Knicks, those projects had me punching up as I was learning on the fly while creating some really fun film pieces over the course of three/four years.
An honorable mention goes to building Jay Z’s cannabis brand Monogram. Working for almost a year with the team to put out a campaign with Hype Williams and Co. Sitting down with legends like Jadakiss, Curren$y - it doesnt get better than a hip hop story for a jewish kid from NY.
MATTE: Was there ever a time when achieving that desired result was particularly challenging?
Probably cliche, but getting ‘that desired result’ has never been easy. Scripts change, deliverables flip - schedules, talent, budgets - there’s always something to rock the boat.
But one of the greatest things about my time here has been working with the mad people at MATTE who each have brought something to the table to help problem solve and achieve what seems to be the impossible (at least in the moment).
MATTE: You keep fondly mentioning your collaborators. What makes being part of this team so special?
There’s definitely an energy within the studio’s revolving door of creative talent. Everybody is hungry, and the majority want to prove their worth.
Being here from an early stage in MATTE’s ongoing journey, I’ve been able to work with so many talented creatives, producers, freelancers etc. - I was just an intern when I started, but learned from those around me, picking off bits and pieces from art directors, copywriters, accounts people, the partners.
Now that I am in a more senior position, its fun to see the new class bring their weird gen-z/AI-foward/tiktok trends to the workflow, as I try to give solid guidance while trying to keep up.
MATTE: Speaking of inspiration, are there any artists who you would consider an influence of yours?
Hans Zimmer. Christopher Nolan. JR. Kobe Bryant. Nils Frahm. Olafur Eliasson. Es Devlin. Sam Youkilis.
People on twitter with hot takes.
People on IG with incredible eyes for creating magical vignettes.
All Mambas really.
MATTE: Is there anything else that inspires you?
The interior design of the new ALD store. The superbowl ad with the dog that made me cry.
Inspiration is wherever your eyes lock in for a sec.
Older advertisements for copy
Fashion shows for experiential
Sport for a mix of flash and grit
Movies? Music? The list doesn’t end.
I probably sound like an agency robot but its all about how you perceive whats’ around you to then take that and turn it into something people can notice.
MATTE: What’s your favorite place in New York?
Big City - Madison Square Garden. Great no matter what, but better when the Knicks are moving positively. Few places carry that energy, and when its rocking - its the best place
Lil City - Forgtmenot. Thanks to my wife, I’ve been lucky enough to cultivate some strong bonds with people from all over the place. Truly a bunch of weirdos but thats what makes New York what it is.
MATTE: Let’s say you left the island of Manhattan and found yourself on a deserted island instead. What are the three things you would take with you?
We need a better framework for this question. Things like possessions? Can I bring my dog? Do i need my laptop or am I OOO?
Lets ‘circle back’?
MATTE: How would you describe your work as a Creative Director?
Unsure really. I'm constantly learning - and the work is constantly changing and im always adapting. Everything I do though is sort of rooted in story, and would I (or one of my friends) really care to watch or go to this. Whether its film, campaigns, experiential or whatever - my work is a reflection of the things that made a mark on me growing up.
Hopefully its relevant. And never wack, that is all.
MATTE: Is there anything else about your job you find energizing?
The job is fun - travel, connections… many stories. Being behind the scenes on things that pop is exciting. Once one thing drops, its onto the next. Fun!
MATTE: What do you envision for your future at MATTE?
More growth. More experience. Learning to lead, guide new creatives, new talent with any knowledge i’ve picked up along the way.
All with a positive attitude :)
