In this episode of Dear Art Producer, Heather Elder sits down with Mary Olson, the Studio Director at Calcium + Company, to explore her multifaceted career and passion for problem-solving in the arts. Mary speaks about her journey from fine art photography to engineering cutting-edge production designs for high-profile clients like Ferrari, Sony, and Boston University. The two discuss the evolving challenges in the creative industry, the role of AI, the importance of sketch-based collaboration, and the unpredictable nature of art production. Mary also shares valuable tips for artists striving to land projects and the significance of maintaining a diverse and adaptive skill set.

In an industry where the rules are always changing, it’s helpful to hear from those on the front lines. Heather Elder is the visionary behind NotesFromARepsJournal.com; visit HeatherElder.com for industry updates, stunning photography and video, and the artists behind the work.

More about our guest:

• Connect with Mary Olson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mo-profile/ 

More about your host:

Heather Elder’s Bio

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In this episode of Dear Art Producer, Heather Elder speaks with Cleo Montagnana, Associate Art Producer at BBDO New York. Cleo shares her journey from film production student to art producer, recounting her experiences working with major clients and her start in a small production company. They discuss the evolving industry, the significance of mentorship, the role of AI in production, and current trends in creativity and client demands. Cleo also touches on the challenges and benefits of treatments, the impact of agency mergers, and her aspirations for more hands-on set experience. The episode is rich with insights into the dynamic world of art production, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and continuous learning.

In an industry where the rules are always changing, it’s helpful to hear from those on the front lines. Heather Elder is the visionary behind NotesFromARepsJournal.com; visit HeatherElder.com for industry updates, stunning photography and video, and the artists behind the work.

More about our guest:

• Connect with Cleo Montagnana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cleo-montagnana-003357171/ 

• Cleo’s website: https://www.cleo-montagnana-portfolio.com/ 

More about your host:

Heather Elder’s Bio

Heather Elder’s Blog

Heather Elder on Instagram

Heather Elder on Twitter

Heather Elder on LinkedIn

Heather Elder on Facebook

In this episode of Dear Art Producer, host Heather Elder is joined by Melissa Le Nicol, a freelance senior art producer with over 20 years of experience in the industry. Melissa shares her journey from working at renowned agencies such as Leo Burnett and Ogilvy to her passion for discovering top photographers and production solutions. They discuss the evolving role of an art producer, the importance of treatments, budget transparency, and the dynamics of creative calls. Additionally, Melissa reveals her fascinating background as an acupuncturist and forensic genealogist, highlighting the diverse interests and skills she has developed alongside her illustrious career in art production.

In an industry where the rules are always changing, it’s helpful to hear from those on the front lines. Heather Elder is the visionary behind NotesFromARepsJournal.com; visit HeatherElder.com for industry updates, stunning photography and video, and the artists behind the work.

More about our guest:

• Connect with Melissa Le Nicol on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissalenicol/ 

• Melissa’s website: https://melissalenicol.com/

More about your host:

Heather Elder’s Bio

Heather Elder’s Blog

Heather Elder on Instagram

Heather Elder on Twitter

Heather Elder on LinkedIn

Heather Elder on Facebook

In this episode of Dear Art Producer, Heather Elder interviews freelance executive producer Lisa Lee. Lisa's extensive career spans content creation for major brands, a pivotal role at TBWA/Chiat/Day, and over 15 years at CP&B. The discussion delves into Lisa's journey, the evolution of her role, and the intricacies of art production. Lisa shares insights on maintaining calm and patience in high-pressure environments, the importance of clear communication, and the challenges of modern production timelines. The conversation also touches on future industry trends, including the impact of AI, and personal anecdotes about navigating the creative industry.

In an industry where the rules are always changing, it’s helpful to hear from those on the front lines. Heather Elder is the visionary behind NotesFromARepsJournal.com; visit HeatherElder.com for industry updates, stunning photography and video, and the artists behind the work.

More about our guest:

Connect with Lisa Lee on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-lee-63b7204/ 

More about your host:

Heather Elder’s Bio

Heather Elder’s Blog

Heather Elder on Instagram

Heather Elder on Twitter

Heather Elder on LinkedIn

Heather Elder on Facebook

In this episode of Dear Art Producer, Heather Elder welcomes Vice President and Executive Producer, Mindy Miller, for a deep dive into various aspects of the creative industry and a discussion that explores topics such as collaboration, empathy, and the need for fair practices to foster a thriving creative ecosystem. Heather interviews Mindy on her unique career journey from fitness training to a leadership role in art production, emphasizing the necessity of creative problem-solving and better communication between agency staff and artists. The conversation expands to the complexities of agency operations, the inefficiencies of the triple bidding process, and the benefits of firm bids. They also explore talent management, the influence of social media in discovering talent, and emerging trends in authentic photography. Additionally, there is a critical examination of industry treatment practices and the potential roles of AI and standardization. 

In an industry where the rules are always changing, it’s helpful to hear from those on the front lines. Heather Elder is the visionary behind NotesFromARepsJournal.com; visit HeatherElder.com for industry updates, stunning photography and video, and the artists behind the work.

More about our guest:

Connect with Mindy Miller on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindymillerberg/ 

More about your host:

Heather Elder’s Bio

Heather Elder’s Blog

Heather Elder on Instagram

Heather Elder on Twitter

Heather Elder on LinkedIn

Heather Elder on Facebook

In this episode of Dear Art Producer, host Heather Elder interviews George Qatsha, a seasoned executive producer with extensive experience in marketing, entertainment, and brand-focused companies. They discuss George's background in photography and his journey into production, highlighting his expertise in visual storytelling and team coordination for major brands like Apple, Nike, and Google. The conversation delves into the importance of integrating creative visions with business needs, transparency in the production process, and the evolving landscape of AI in creative industries. They also touch on trends such as the need for motion in artistic reels, the role of websites, and the potential use of AI as a tool rather than a replacement in production work. 

In an industry where the rules are always changing, it’s helpful to hear from those on the front lines. Heather Elder is the visionary behind NotesFromARepsJournal.com; visit HeatherElder.com for industry updates, stunning photography and video, and the artists behind the work.

More about our guest:

Connect with George Qatsha on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-qatsha-10122a12/ 

More about your host:

Heather Elder’s Bio

Heather Elder’s Blog

Heather Elder on Instagram

Heather Elder on Twitter

Heather Elder on LinkedIn

Heather Elder on Facebook

In this episode of Dear Art Producer, Heather Elder welcomes Elisa Morse, founder and executive producer of the commercial production company, Piece Mill. Elisa shares her journey from aspiring copywriter and theater major to becoming an on-staff producer at Snapchat and eventually founding her own forward-thinking production company in 2018. They discuss the impact of social media on commercial production, the evolution of industry standards, the importance of authenticity and collaboration, and the challenges and opportunities that come with flexibility in modern production. Elisa also shares insights about maintaining meaningful relationships, promoting a positive and inclusive company culture, and the significance of female leadership.

In an industry where the rules are always changing, it’s helpful to hear from those on the front lines. Heather Elder is the visionary behind NotesFromARepsJournal.com; visit HeatherElder.com for industry updates, stunning photography and video, and the artists behind the work.

More about our guest:

Connect with Elisa and Piece Mill https://piecemill.co/ 

More about your host:

Heather Elder’s Bio

Heather Elder’s Blog

Heather Elder on Instagram

Heather Elder on Twitter

Heather Elder on LinkedIn

Heather Elder on Facebook

In this episode of Dear Art Producer, Heather Elder welcomes Mary Ann Guglietta, VP Executive Producer at IPG Health. Mary Ann shares insights from her unique career journey, starting from behind the camera to a thriving career in art buying and production, specializing in still art forms such as photography, illustration, and CGI. Throughout the conversation, Mary Ann discusses the nuances of managing creative projects, the importance of effective communication and relationships, and the current trends in art production, including the impact of AI and the integration of CGI and photography. Heather and Mary Ann also dive into the process of bidding and awarding projects, emphasizing the significance of creative treatments, and offer advice to young artists navigating this field. 

In an industry where the rules are always changing, it’s helpful to hear from those on the front lines. Heather Elder is the visionary behind NotesFromARepsJournal.com; visit HeatherElder.com for industry updates, stunning photography and video, and the artists behind the work.

More about our guest:

Find Mary Ann  on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-ann-guglietta-621b40b8 

More about your host:

Heather Elder’s Bio

Heather Elder’s Blog

Heather Elder on Instagram

Heather Elder on Twitter

Heather Elder on LinkedIn

Heather Elder on Facebook

In this episode of Dear Art Producer, host Heather Elder converses with Cassie Bull, a VP Executive Freelance Producer, exploring her impressive journey within the production industry. They delve into Bull's beginnings in PR, her transition to an ad agency, and her evolution into a respected producer known for her creative and adaptable approach across photography, animation, original music, sound, and broadcast video production. The conversation illuminates the importance of adaptability, the art of maintaining work-life balance amidst busy schedules, and the nuances of the creative process in freelancing. Also discussed is client relationships, the critical role of treatments in pitching, and trends in pharma advertising. 

In an industry where the rules are always changing, it’s helpful to hear from those on the front lines. Heather Elder is the visionary behind NotesFromARepsJournal.com; visit HeatherElder.com for industry updates, stunning photography and video, and the artists behind the work.

More about our guest:

Find Cassie  on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassie-bull-b0658a33/ 

More about your host:

Heather Elder’s Bio

Heather Elder’s Blog

Heather Elder on Instagram

Heather Elder on Twitter

Heather Elder on LinkedIn

Heather Elder on Facebook 

In this episode of Dear Art Producer, host Heather Elder sits down with Alexis Coulter, the dynamic Head of Production at adam&eveDDB West. Alexis shares her fascinating journey from a self-proclaimed 'theater kid' passionate about storytelling, through her early career beginnings in TV and PBS, to her eventual emergence as a leading figure in advertising, where she honed her skills across several renowned agencies before making impactful contributions at sweetgreen. The conversation also explores the challenges and triumphs of the advertising world, the nuances of creative collaboration, the importance of establishing authentic connections on creative calls, and the perpetual quest for talent. 

In an industry where the rules are always changing, it’s helpful to hear from those on the front lines. Heather Elder is the visionary behind NotesFromARepsJournal.com; visit HeatherElder.com for industry updates, stunning photography and video, and the artists behind the work.

More about our guest:

Find Alexis  on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexisstembercoulter

More about your host:

Heather Elder’s Bio

Heather Elder’s Blog

Heather Elder on Instagram

Heather Elder on Twitter

Heather Elder on LinkedIn

Heather Elder on Facebook