(Madison, Wis.) – Planet Propaganda has hired Joseph Jeremy “J.J.” Johnstone as a motion designer working on such passion-based brands as Gary Fisher mountain bikes, Bretford furniture and workspaces, PunchStock royalty-free images, and Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches.
From high-profile commercial shoots, short film projects and award-winning music videos, to soundtracks and songs, to his regular column in London’s Computer Arts, Johnstone’s creative talents and technical knowledge is recognized throughout North America and Europe. Previously based in Portland, Ore., he was considering a permanent move overseas before meeting John Besmer, Planet principal and head of its film division P Star Pictures, who introduced Johnstone to his colleagues. “I know Planet does good quality work, but what really impresses me is that they aren’t overly serious or pretentious about it. They keep their sense of humor, they’re laid back, they have fun and they do good work,” explains Johnstone.
Bringing a similar work ethic and impressive portfolio, Johnstone joined Planet in mid-April as its newest and youngest staff member. At 24, his professional design career spans five years. His ability to blend visual, musical and written communications took hold early in life. He and his brother, Robbie, would shoot short films during their high school years. In college, Johnstone and friends started Andromeda Snowboards, which yielded so much success that demand exceeded production. Following his studies in film and post-production at NorthWest Film Center and in graphic design at Portland State University, Johnstone started the design collective Rockadee, once again working with his brother and friends.
In addition to his strategic and managerial roles with Rockadee, Johnstone served as a creative director for all of the collective’s projects. Among these, his motion graphics and video clients included adidas Group, Umpqua Bank, and the independent rock label Deep Elm Records. The resulting productions have been honored by Digit Magazine, The Indie Music Video Festival, Music Video Wire and SXSW, as well as with appearances on FUSE Networks, MTV Europe, MuchMusic Canada, and STASH DVD.
A musician in his own right, Johnstone toured in the U.S. playing drums, guitar and “a little bass” with independent bands. Now that he and his wife Stephanie are settled in Madison, Wis., Johnstone says he looks forward to playing again, perhaps accompanying Kevin Wade, Planet principal and bass guitar player with the band P’elvis.
Planet Propaganda is a design, advertising and interactive company committed to shaping passion-based brands. Founded in 1989 in Madison, Wis., Planet’s national clients include Gary Fisher mountain bikes, Bretford furniture and workspaces, PunchStock royalty-free images, and Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches. For more information, please visit http://www.planetpropaganda.com.
————————————————–
Media Contact:
Heather West
612.724.8760 phone
heatherwest@earthlink.net
