Street Talk for August 7, 2020
Kelly Bayett

L.A.-based creative studio Whitelist has changed its name to Florence. The company rebrand is an extension of its ongoing mission to foster an inclusive culture where diverse perspectives are valued. Company founder/EP Jerad Anderson explained, “As makers, we are keenly aware of how the messages that we make resonate in our culture and the responsibility that brings. We need to do our part to address systemic issues within our industry, including examining the language that we use, even when it comes to our own name.”  The Florence moniker was chosen to echo another moment of great historical change, the Renaissance. Originating in Florence, Italy, the Renaissance was a time of broad social change, marked by an explosion of creativity. The studio sees today as a moment that holds similar potential. The company’s collaborative style of working has resulted in a variety of successful projects, including Double Sexy for Nowness, Vulture x Made Ready: Chapter 1 with Questlove, and Spirits in the Forest, Depeche Mode’s live concert film documentary directed by Anton Corbijn. The studio has collaborated with agencies such as Anomaly, BBDO, Fallon, and Wieden+Kennedy on work for brands including Disney, Google, Johnson & Johnson, Nike, and Apple....

Reaching out with a new diversity initiative. The “Barking Owl Sessions,” produced by music/sound studio Barking Owl and directed by production company UNIT9, is a new weekly series that broadcasts intimate performances from up-and-coming Black artists on Instagram Live. The goal is to showcase Black artists to brands, agencies, creatives and producers who may want to license their music for commercials. Recent performances include rappers Problem, Jodie Jo and songwriting duo Campfire featuring Sean Eli. Kelly Bayett, Barking Owl’s founder, has prioritized diversity. Her team is 73% POC and LGBTQ+. Now she’s partnered with Michelle Craig, creative partner at UNIT9, to introduce the industry to talented Black artists....

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