Jonathan Djob Nkondo makes a little go a long way. His economical, perspective-bending animations turn simple forms into tactile and intriguing worlds. From his experimental shorts to his work directing episodes of Scavengers Reign, he’s an artist with a very particular way of seeing things. And a very interesting way of working.

In our collaborations, Jonathan doesn’t give us a brief, explain what he’s after or offer any feedback whatsoever. He chooses his collaborators and trusts them to get on with it. Lovely. Also slightly terrifying.

A dream arrangement, in many ways. Although an entirely open brief leaves one fairly substantial question: where do we start?

Fortunately, Jonathan’s films give us plenty to respond to. Perspectives shift, familiar things become unfamiliar, and blocky, sculptural forms have weight and character. However meticulously planned, they feel immediate and instinctive. We take our cue from that, working quickly and letting ideas take shape before we’ve had time to talk ourselves out of them. Overthinking can lead to familiar answers. Responding straight from the gut helps us catch something less obvious.

Jonathan’s come back several times since our first collaboration. We’re taking that as a good sign.

Here’s to more. Brief optional.