Independent creative studio Heckler has officially opened its doors in Shanghai, reuniting Lily Li, Barry Greaves, and Steven Marolho as partners.
The trio founded Smoke & Mirrors Shanghai, launching MPC Shanghai and leading The Mill Shanghai.
“Shanghai has always been a creative lightning rod for Asia,” said Heckler co-founder and CEO Will Alexander.
“With Lily, Barry, and Steve leading our next chapter, we’re reigniting a culture built on artistry, independence, and fearless craft. This is Heckler’s biggest statement yet.
“We’re here to make some noise.
“To push culture forward, to champion craft, and to remind the world that independence is our superpower.
“Asia just got its new creative heartbeat – one led by people who still believe in the magic of making.”
Founded in Sydney in 2010, Heckler has delivered work for Apple, Netflix, Mercedes-Benz, Amazon, Riot Games and Coca-Cola.
“This is about freedom,” said Heckler Shanghai partner & MD Lily Li.
“Heckler gives us the independence to make bold, beautiful work on our own terms, with the best people in the business.”
Heckler Shanghai partner & COO Steven Marolho said they’ve got the band back together.
“For us, it’s about showing up – for our clients, our team, and each other,” Marolho said.
“Continuing to deliver the high-quality creative work we’ve dedicated our careers to bringing to the China market and across the region.”
Heckler Shanghai partner & ECD Barry Greaves said Heckler is the studio we always wanted to build.
“One that puts people before process, and values creativity and collaboration above all else,” said Greaves.
Heckler co-founder and CCO Jamie Watson said that AI isn’t replacing creativity.
“It’s amplifying it and the future belongs to the studios that know how to harness these tools without losing their soul,” said Watson.
“The right alchemy happens where technology meets humanity, and that’s exactly where Heckler lives.”
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