Jessie Cowan
Creative Director / Art Director / Creative Strategist
Los Angeles, CA
Q What do you do?
“I am a creative who specializes in authentic 360 storytelling and Creative Direction for Fashion, Entertainment, Lifestyle, Food, Wellness & Interior Brands.”
I provide Concept Development, Creative Strategy, On-set Art Direction (Photo & Video), E-Commerce, Brand Strategy, Brand Storytelling, Campaign Development, Social Strategy, Mood Boards, Storyboards, Creative Briefs, Pitch Decks, Casting, Location Scouting, Budgeting, Robust Creative Talent Roster, Editing & Final Content Delivery. I love what I do!
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
After studying Conceptual Art and Photography at CalArts, I took my first step into the creative world with an internship at the American Film Institute. It was there that my love for photography, film, and design deepened. From there, I leaped into the corporate world at Getty Images during a golden era of creative freedom—a time that allowed me to dream, experiment, and find my voice.
That passion for creativity led me to boutique agencies, in-house creative teams, and eventually to launching my own freelance career. Over the past 15+ years, I’ve worn many hats and built a dynamic career grounded in collaboration, bold ideas, and hands-on leadership.
Some highlights include curating for the Lucie Foundation’s Month of Photography Los Angeles, serving as a juror for the 2024 APA Awards, and partnering with incredible photographers, talent, and clients. I’ve had the privilege of working with brands like AT&T, E! Entertainment, Epitaph Records, Acura, Lucid Motors, and the Screen Actors Guild Awards, among others.
Always curious and eager to evolve, I stay inspired by exploring new ideas and honing my craft—whether through hands-on projects or continued education at ArtCenter. I thrive at the intersection of creativity and strategy, bringing imagination and experience to every project I touch.
Q How do you stand out in your field?
I stand out in my field as a true 360 creative—a bit of a unicorn—with a rare combination of hands-on experience and big-picture vision. My background as a photographer gave me a deep understanding of storytelling and visual language, but I’ve always known I wanted to do more than create from behind the lens. I see the world in a unique way, brimming with wildly original ideas and the belief that anything is possible.
I’ve always been passionate about branding, which has driven me to be part of leading the bigger picture. I’m a glass-half-full optimist with boundless energy and a knack for uncovering opportunities that push brands beyond the expected. My ability to seamlessly balance creative strategy with hands-on execution allows me to bring bold, fresh concepts to life while staying grounded in collaboration and practicality. This perspective helps me stand apart as a dynamic creative force who’s not afraid to dream big and deliver.
Q What are you working on right now?
I recently wrapped curating a branding activation event space at the Sundance Film Festival and am now putting the finishing touches on a stunning storytelling fashion video, which I’m beyond excited to share soon. In addition I’m currently writing and storyboarding a music video for a band on Billboard's 21 under 21 list.
Q What’s your style?
My style strikes a balance in tone between sophistication and playfulness—modern with a timeless edge. In storytelling, I prioritize authenticity, emotion, and humanity, always striving to bring moments of beauty and feeling to life, whether joyful or empowering. My vision is versatile, seamlessly blending across both editorial and commercial spaces, while staying true to the heart of each project.
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
So hard to choose, but it would be a toss-up between fashion and entertainment. If I could focus on one area, it would be branding and creative strategy, specifically directing editorial fashion and commercial apparel branding and advertising campaigns. I’m drawn to the art of storytelling—whether through stills or video—but it’s sooo hard to choose just one! I’m also excited about expanding further into entertainment, exploring more conceptual key art and branding for studios as a new creative territory.
Q What is frustrating you right now?
What’s most frustrating right now is the challenge of shrinking budgets paired with unbalanced expectations. It’s tough to feel forced into making cuts in areas where maintaining quality is essential. However, this has been more common with in-house teams, and I’ve found that transparent conversations with clients and mutual understanding can lead to better solutions and creative success.
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
I bring my dog to work and she is very attention seeking. So I would say someone I could hire to take her for a run, play ball, and tire her out so she can enjoy a good nap while I focus on doing my best work.
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
Success isn’t a one-size-fits-all path, and the journey is yours to define. I would tell myself not to listen to anyone who doubts what I know I can achieve. Believe in yourself, trust your instincts, and remember that anything is possible.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
I’d love to talk to an expert to gain insight into their personal journey—how they found inspiration, overcame challenges, and navigated their path to success, especially when it came to breaking into something new. I’d seek wisdom in how they got to where they are today and learn how I can apply those lessons to my own goals and journey.
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
I’m thrilled about any project opportunities, but my ideal “core list” would include:
-360 Creative Direction for Photo and Video Campaigns
-Brand Creative Strategy
-Concept Development
I’m passionate about it all—fashion, entertainment, music, outdoor & lifestyle, health, and wellness. Each industry excites me in its own unique way, and I’m eager to bring new ideas and energy to any creative project.
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
My ideal client is one with a strong message—authentic, inspiring, and open to dreaming big, having fun, and thinking outside the box. I appreciate intentional brands that understand the power of storytelling and value collaborative communication. Trust in my expertise and ideas is key. An ideal job feels like a partnership, where the client brings their brand’s inspiration, and together, we roll up our sleeves to explore and create something truly unique.
Q: What is your rate?
My rates start at $250 per hour (e.g.on set creative direction), in addition to offering project packages. Rates vary depending on the scope of the project and are adjusted based on the brand's stage—whether it's an established brand or a startup. I provide a detailed estimate for project costs and timelines upfront, ensuring we’re aligned on expectations, milestones, and any additional creative team requirements before we begin.
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
Email me! I’d love to hear about your project, brand, and timeline—sharing those details upfront is always a bonus. From there, we can set up a time to discuss your vision and build your creative road map.
Q Who is a creative you admire?
I would recommend Amanda Friedman. She’s one of my ride or die creative collaborators. Best on set energy and totally understands creative vision.
website / instagram
Visual artist whose work make me happy is Aaron Farley. It’s been so cool to see his career evolve. Lovely human and incredible work.
website
Favorite Stylist I love working with Faye Cecleste. She has such a unique vision and ideas. Playful and also amazing energy on set.
website / instagram
Also love working with Photographer Jeaneen Lund. Magical person with incredible creative vision and works amazing collaboratively.
website / instagram
A favorite illustrator Antonia Figueiredo. Adore her work and as a human. Lovey creative mind and energy
website / instagram
The list goes on but just to name a few…
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
Music Drives, Nature Walks, Indie Book Stores and Creative Friendships
This member profile was originally published in January 2025.