Canvas Rebel > Olivier, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Owning a business isn’t always glamorous and so most business owners we’ve connected with have shared that on tough days they sometimes wonder what it would have been like to have just had a regular job instead of all the responsibility of running a business. Have you ever felt that way?

Olivier > Reflecting on my entrepreneurial journey, I’ve always found a unique sense of fulfillment in it. There have been moments, though, when I’ve pondered the path of a regular job. One vivid instance comes to mind, encapsulating this contemplation.

I was in my 20s, navigating through the unpredictable waves of entrepreneurship, experiencing both highs and lows. During this time, I had the privilege of interning with my idols in the animation industry. This stint not only allowed me to work on two interesting shorts but some of my birds animations happened to be re used on the Oscar-nominated animation film “Une Vie de Chat,” and so, to give me an assistant animator credit on that film as well – a milestone that was both exhilarating and affirming.

Simultaneously, another internship led my work to grace the cover of the prestigious “Archive Magazine” and that same work win a Silver Award in Cannes. It was a period of significant achievements and recognition.

In the midst of these accomplishments, an unexpected offer came my way. The head of Leo Burnett in Brussels saw potential in me and offered me a really great leading position. On the surface, it seemed like a golden opportunity – a stable, prestigious role in an esteemed organization, especially at a time when I was jobless.

However, this proposition triggered deep introspection. Despite the allure of stability and prestige, I realized that accepting this role would mean sacrificing a core element of my identity – my freedom. Freedom to create, to explore, and to steer my path. This realization was pivotal.

I graciously declined the offer, choosing to stay true to my entrepreneurial spirit. This decision wasn’t made lightly, but it reinforced my belief in my journey. It was a moment of clarity that despite the allure of conventional paths, my passion and commitment lie in forging my own way, embracing the uncertainties and freedoms that come with it.

This experience was more than just a career choice; it was an affirmation of my values and a testament to the confidence I had in my vision. It solidified my belief that the entrepreneurial path, while challenging, is incredibly rewarding and aligns with my aspirations and sense of self.

In conclusion, while there are fleeting thoughts about a regular job, they serve more as checkpoints, reaffirming my commitment to entrepreneurship and the unique joys and challenges it brings.

Currently as director and photographer I had the chance to work with different artists and celebrities from different countries, the most recent collaborations was for a worldwide shooting for Coke. I am also very passionated by film I directed, written and produced several shorts that won several awards around the world. Currently with my team and producers we are pushing for my first feature, Backpacker, we had the opportunity to present our pitch to several buyers at the AFM few weeks ago in Los Angeles and it’s really getting some tractions.

I am also owning a small production company based in China and we recently opened another branch in Estonia under the name of Studio Supreme.

We offer diverse services including Executive/Line commercial production, film production, photography, motion design, and AI generative technology. We pride ourselves on artistic creativity and technological innovation. Our work has been recognized at Cannes and Promaxbda in Los Angeles. And wee have collaborated with many brands such as Converse, Nike, Porsche and many more.

As I travel a lot for work I like to be the connection between cultures and either serve producers with my creative vision as director/photographer or help production companies or agencies by providing services in different countries.

I strive to create stunning visuals that not only reflect my creative passions but also resonate deeply with viewers and clients alike. My aim is to bring visions to life, ensuring each project is imbued with creativity, quality, and innovation.

On a deeply personal level, my film work is a conduit for sharing emotions drawn from my own human experiences and my fervent passion for cinema. It’s more than just creating visuals; it’s about connecting with a wider audience on a profound emotional level.

Looking ahead, I’m eagerly anticipating the production of “Backpacker.” The plan is to be on set in Canada next year, and it’s a project that holds a special place in my heart.

Fingers crossed, this will be a significant step in bringing this deeply personal vision to life.

Canvas Rebel > Have you ever had to pivot?

Olivier > Being a creative or an artist is a commitment and not always a choice. In my case I did born this way and I can’t remember a time where I didn’t wanted to be a creative. But the sacrifices you have to put to yourself are quite high, as a matter of fact it’s 5:34 am in Bangkok where I am writing this interview on a Saturday.

You have to be willing (in my case) to be working 7 days a week and long hours.

At some point, for personal reasons I wanted to have a “normal” life, so I did try to work as a bar tender for about a month. Apparently they still talking about me decades later, I am still friend with the owner, as I am the worst, but also the most memorable bar tender they ever had.

Then I decided to do this internship that put me on the map and boosted my confidence. It was the right path to choose despite the hardship, so I don’t shy away to call myself an artist, it’s just another job.

I never regret my decision, quite the contrary ,I always feel I want to do more, work on bigger project with more creative people around the world. I am quite competitive, but always enjoying the success of others because I know how hard it is in this industry.

Canvas Rebel > Can you tell us about what's worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

Olivier > I really try to be the most authentic, direct, honest and real person as possible in my relationship with my clients and business partners.

I don’t like playing games and really want to keep earning the good reputation I have in the business.

One of my clients in London have a “no bullshit” policy written on his website, I told him I want to borrow him that sentence. So yeah, here we go.

I feel a good reputation is the most valuable asset an individual or a company can get.

Usually I don’t really look for clients but they come to me and my partners.

I really want to keep things that way.