Florence Director and Photographer Michael Barth’s Intricate Inspirations

Florence’s Michael Barth talks shots through the flushes, flashlights, and fungi that keep his creativity flowing.

Describing himself as “Herzog in head, Cronenberg in bed,” the off-kilter wit of Florence director and photographer Michael Barth can be enjoyed from the outset.

Originally from Los Angeles, and currently living in Rio de Janeiro, the filmmaker, whose clients have included Starbucks, Fitbit, Google, Corona, UGG, Fujifilm, and, most importantly, CHER, talks us through the intimate and intricate delights that fuel his artistic flair.

The Stuff Made in Ukraine
If you aren’t hiring Ukrainians, you’re already behind.

I only have a few material things, but the gems I love most are all Ukrainian exports. My experience with their sense of aesthetics and ability to execute creative and technological endeavours of the highest quality with seamless collaboration never ceases to amaze me.

I had the extreme privilege of spending time in Ukraine and making some of my closest friends there. They helped me unlock a new tier of community that I’ve never known elsewhere; they’re the most friendly, loyal, and chill people in my life - and that is directly imbued into the things that are made there.

I’m grateful to have Ukrainian upcycled clothing, jewellery, web design, tattoos, graphic design, AR tools, and even a digital art collective. Slava Ukraini.