ArtClass is raising the bar of talent with the addition of two dynamic directors, Adam Azimov and Eric Kiel. Launched by director Vincent Peone and executive producer Geno Imbriale in 2018, ArtClass offers a suite of world-class creative services across Los Angeles and New York.

 

Known for his raw and visually striking style gleaned from hitchhiking North America at a young age, Montreal native Adam Azimov has always reveled in taking risks. The unique sights from his trekking continued to influence his work as he honed his filmmaking chops, first as an assistant film editor for features, then working in the fast-paced newsroom at the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. Azimov attended the Canadian Film Centre as a director fellow, Norman Jewison’s renowned film fellowship program in Toronto.

 

Believing the fully-realized story elements of feature-length films could also be consumed in the short format, Azimov’s filmmaking career took off with Silent Cargo, winning him Best Short Film at the ReelWorld Film Festival. Azimov has landed campaigns for Toyota and McDonald’s, and been shortlisted for prestigious industry honors including The One Show and Clio Awards.

 

One of Azimov’s standout projects is a high-energy hockey commercial he directed for adidas. His vision looked beyond the NHL superstars’ popular personas to showcase their individuality on and off the ice, shot via a mix of formats including an ALEXA, iPhones, GoPros, drones, and an old Hi-8 camera.

 

Previously repped by Rabbit Content and Pictures In A Row, fellow ArtClass addition Eric Kiel has a 20-year history as a commercial photographer, and has been directing for half that time. Even with his vast experience in media production, Kiel started in live action from the ground up, shadowing on set to learn as much as he could about being a strong leader. Believing the collaboration between director and crew is the glue to making a great commercial, Kiel has assembled a close network of DPs, editors, and producers to call upon for projects specific to the areas they thrive in.

 

The former dive instructor has shot commercials underwater, along with equally adventurous ads in all types of geographic extremes. Kiel’s daringness and preference for working lean has landed him brand work for GMC, Tabasco, New Holland, John Deere, Pep Boys, XOJet, Yeti, Dick’s Sporting Goods, FOX Sports, Pfizer, Marriott, Cargill, Decked, Ski-Doo, HP, Patagonia, and Outside Magazine.

 

He mentions campaigns for Land Rover and Chevy Silverado as career highlights. For both shoots, he was not only the director but also the photographer, and that’s exactly what Kiel liked: the simplicity and challenge of pulling it off with a skillful team, big-budget polish, and creating a seamless campaign seen through the live action and still imagery, right down to the color work.