We were lucky to catch up with Jonric Watts recently and have shared our conversation below.
Jonric, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
Knowing your capabilities and leveraging them creatively is key to effective work. My motto is often summarized as, ‘Work smarter, not harder.’ As a leader, understanding your team is crucial, even if they seem different from you. Each person has unique skills that can contribute significantly.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I am a Production Designer, Set Designer, and Creative Director with nearly a decade of experience in the film industry, starting in 2014. Many people know me as “The Precise Dude” because I pay meticulous attention to details and subtle elements.
My creative process often begins with scattered ideas and inspirations. These initial thoughts are brought together in brainstorming sessions with my team, where ideas collide and evolve into tangible realities. While the results may not always be perfect due to various challenges, the learning experience is invaluable and one of the aspects I love most about my job.
Last year, I founded my own studio, Stimulant Studio. My vision is to connect with artists from diverse fields to collaborate on projects such as set design, sculpture, installation art, and more. My team and I are also working on organizing various events, including music and art exhibitions, recitals, and hopefully, music concerts in the near future.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Creativity, communication skills, and team management are essential qualities.
As a Production Designer, my role goes beyond just creating designs. It involves understanding the client’s vision, providing guidance, and making informed decisions to bring that vision to life. By placing the right person in the right position, I help save time, manage the budget effectively, and streamline the workflow. The more knowledge I have, the easier it is to achieve the goals. It’s essential to not just focus on one aspect, but to view the project holistically. Remember, you are not just a designer; you are a leader who can make the vision a reality.
You don’t need to master every skill, but having relevant experience and knowledge will help you handle various situations more effectively. This comprehensive approach ensures that the project is completed successfully and meets the client’s expectations.
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
Knowing what they want, and why they need me.
Understanding what clients want, what they are looking for, and why they need my expertise is crucial. Often, clients are unsure of their exact needs, leading them to request multiple options. This process consumes additional time and budget on solutions that may not be utilized. It’s not that I am unwilling to work, but spending extra time on unnecessary options wastes valuable resources for the department.
The reason clients need my expertise is that they have a vision but lack the means to actualize it. It’s not that they are entirely clueless, but they need my assistance to figure out the practical steps. Problems frequently arise when I have to guess what the client wants. Clear communication and a thorough understanding of the project from the outset prevent misunderstandings and ensure a more efficient workflow.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://jonricwatts.com
- Instagram: jonricwatts
- Facebook: jonricwatts
- Other: @Stimulant.Studio
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
