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Will Cherry
Interactive Creative Director & Producer
Professional Background
Will Cherry is a dynamic figure in the intersection of technology and storytelling, using these mediums to foster connection and engender change. His journey began in Los Angeles when he entered the prestigious University of Southern California (USC) School of Cinematic Arts in 2011. It was there that Will committed himself to the art of film and television production, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree with an impressive GPA of 3.75. During his time at USC, he produced a variety of short films, music videos, and tabletop games, showcasing his versatility and willingness to dive into every role imaginable within the production spectrum.
Will’s undergraduate career culminated in several thesis films that encapsulated his growth as a storyteller. It was during this period that he developed a fascination with non-traditional narrative forms, which led him to learn coding and the construction of interactive experiences. Driven by a passion for creative innovation, Will succeeded in merging narrative storytelling with emerging technologies, specifically through virtual reality (VR) and interactive media. His final undergraduate project, Ricerca, was a pioneering installation that was among the first VR experiences featured on Steam, made available through HTC Vive. Its success not only established his reputation in the immersive storytelling community but also opened doors for him to share his insights at renowned events like SXSW and the New York Film Festival.
In 2016, Will took on the role of Creative Technologist at Vrse.Works, which later became known as Here Be Dragons. Here, he positioned himself as a key player, bridging the gap between traditional filmmaking and the developing world of real-time interactive experiences. During his tenure, he spearheaded innovative projects such as Dispatch, The Last Goodbye, and Chained: A Victorian Nightmare, recognizing and integrating cutting-edge VR and AR technologies into award-winning installations. His rich contributions during this time solidified his reputation as an expert in immersive media.
In mid-2018, Will embarked on a freelance journey, leveraging his expertise as a creative technologist and immersive designer. He collaborated on a variety of groundbreaking projects, including Groundhog Day VR and the Dallas Cowboys 5G Fan Experience, where his skills in crafting engaging installations played a pivotal role. Beyond his project work, he serves as the XR Correspondent for No Proscenium, sharing his insights and experiences with the larger immersive community. Additionally, he curates the Immersive Design Reader, an online resource dedicated to guiding creators in designing experiences that transcend traditional screen boundaries. Will's fervent dedication to using technology to enhance artistic vision and elevate human experiences—through both physical and digital realms—continues to shape his professional narrative.
Education and Achievements
Will holds a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Film and Television Production from the prestigious University of Southern California (USC), where he graduated with a strong GPA of 3.75. His education equipped him with a solid foundation in film and storytelling techniques, while also encouraging him to explore innovative tools and methodologies that would become crucial in his career. During his studies, Will actively participated in various project roles, thus honing his skills in production management, technical operations, and creative direction.
Throughout his career, Will has consistently contributed to notable projects that have garnered attention and acclaim within the industry. His dedication to immersive storytelling and creative innovation makes him a sought-after professional in the realms of virtual and augmented reality. His involvement in projects like Dispatch, The Last Goodbye, and Groundhog Day VR speaks volumes about his ability to blend narrative with technology effectively, transforming them into compelling experiences for audiences.
Achievements
Will Cherry’s career boasts a number of noteworthy achievements, highlighting his influence and commitment to advancing the field of interactive storytelling:
- Pioneering VR Experiences: His work on Ricerca marked one of the first VR installations to be featured on Steam via HTC Vive, influencing the future of immersive storytelling.
- Keynote Speaker: Will gained recognition as a featured speaker at industry-leading events such as SXSW and the New York Film Festival, showcasing his innovative methodologies and insights into immersive narratives.
- Creative Leadership: As a Creative Technologist at Here Be Dragons, Will led teams in the implementation of cutting-edge technologies, contributing to projects that received industry awards and accolades.
- Diverse Project Portfolio: His freelance work spans across a range of significant projects, solidifying his expertise within virtual and augmented reality.
- Educational Advocate: In his self-published work, the Immersive Design Reader, Will serves as a resource for individuals interested in designing immersive experiences, reflecting his commitment to fostering innovation in storytelling.
- Community Engagement: As the XR Correspondent for No Proscenium, he actively participates in discussions and knowledge-sharing within the immersive community, demonstrating his advocacy for storytelling through technology.
Will Cherry’s multifaceted career underscores his passion for storytelling through immersive technologies, illustrating his ability to adapt and innovate in a rapidly evolving industry. His commitment to improving human experiences through art and technology positions him as a leading voice in the world of immersive design and creative technology.
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Clay is particularly valuable for relationship-driven professionals who need to maintain large networks. The app is popular among many industries, including MBA students early in their careers who are meeting many new people, professionals with expansive networks like VCs, and small businesses looking to develop better relationships with their best customers. Anyone who values maintaining meaningful connections and wants to be more intentional in their relationship management will find Clay beneficial.
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