Bringing an emotive story to life
Thandiwe Newton (formerly credited as Thandie Newton) is a critically acclaimed British actress known for her versatile roles in film and television.
LONDON - UK
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Following her widely acclaimed TED Talk, “Embracing otherness, embracing myself,” actor Thandiwe Newton sought to create a lasting artefact that could capture the power, depth, and perspective of her message.
The ambition was to translate a globally recognised moment into a considered, tangible format, one that authentically expressed her personal ethos while standing up to the highest creative and editorial standards.
This required a partner capable of leading a complex, multi-disciplinary collaboration and shaping a clear, cohesive narrative from concept to delivery.
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We led the creation of the book from concept through to completion, working in close collaboration with Thandiwe Newton and a carefully curated creative team.
Central to the project was the partnership between our Founder, Chris Fogg, and renowned photographer Jonathan Oakes, whose long-standing collaboration enabled a unified creative vision and high level of execution.
Our role was to define the narrative framework, ensure the verbal and visual storytelling authentically reflected Thandiwe’s ethos, and orchestrate the contributions of multiple specialists, including stylist Hannah Grace, whose creative input elevated the overall direction, and a wider team spanning modelling, grooming, retouching, and print.
Throughout the process, we ensured clarity of vision, alignment across disciplines, and consistency in execution.
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The book was met with widespread critical acclaim across diverse audiences, successfully extending the impact of the original TED Talk into a powerful, enduring format.
In addition to its cultural and artistic resonance, the project achieved significant industry recognition, with the photography and art direction winning multiple awards.
The work stands as a strong example of our ability to translate a powerful idea into a cohesive, high-impact outcome, leading complex collaborations and delivering work of lasting value and influence.
“Following the outstanding achievement award we received for the design and publishing of Kelly Reemtsen’s book, it was great to have the chance to express our creativity again, not just in the design and art direction but moreover the structure of the storytelling.
Crucial to this project was the integrity and effectiveness of visually representing Thandie’s unique story and compelling perspective. We love this genre of project and have been fortunate enough to be involved in the arts on many occasions.
It was wonderful to work in such close collaboration with Johnny who has the rare ability to craft a unique visual ‘voice’ through his technical ability as a photographer.”
Chris Fogg
“As a photographer it’s important to be constantly evolving and experimenting, creating fresh new material to enthuse potential clients and inspire existing ones. Commissioned work is often limited by commercial restraints and creative boundaries so it’s so important to allocate time and resources to independent project work.
When I heard about this project I was excited by the opportunity to collaborate with Chris and his team to combine our skills and create something to tell the story in a unique and elegant way.
The finished result is a proud accomplishment and illustrates what can be achieved by a skilled and talented team working with a great idea, unrestricted creativity and boundless enthusiasm. I’m hugely grateful for this opportunity massive thanks to all involved.”
Jonathan Oakes
