Meet Playa Vista Founder: Shea Lewis

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shea Lewis.

Shea, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I dropped out of Art College half way through because I found more value in online resources to help me grow as a creative. As a result, I immediately went straight to work in the design industry. While working in the industry I found it very hard to obtain recognition while being so young and new within the industry. I also saw an absence of culture or leadership at other companies I worked at prior. So I set out to create my own shop with creatives who are motivated and want to build amazing products at the end of the day.

I could not have gotten where I am today without the amazing team that helps keep me in check and continues to keep the wheels moving. They are literally the most dedicated team I could ask for. I never imagined we would grow as fast as we currently are and working with clients I would only dream about.

Has it been a smooth road?
It wasn’t a smooth road. Making the transition from the typical projected path of professional education and joining an existing agency came with its own set of obstacles along the way. As I stepped foot into the uncharted territory, I found it difficult to prove myself within the stomping grounds of giants who were well statured within the industry. As I continued to find, building connections would prove to not come easy, as well as, getting meeting with influencers. This proved to be additionally difficult as I had yet to build a solid portfolio to aid in my pursuit.

What role has luck had in your life and career?
I find myself a very lucky person. I’ve worked hard to get where I’m at but I would say that the people around me that help push me forward, and help me grow, I feel very lucky and thankful.

Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Being Driven and also being open minded to all ideas and opinions. Finding the ability to hear others thoughts was very difficult for me when I was getting started and is still something I struggle with. But I’ve learned it’s the most important skill to have for my career.

Tell us about your favorite and least favorites things about our city.
I love the people in LA for the most part. Working in a tech is an interesting world here in LA. It’s a lot different rather than up in the Bay Area. As far as what I like the least about LA is the traffic/parking. Isn’t that everyone’s complaint?

Contact Info:

• Website: www.knifeandfox.com
• Phone: 949.292.3294
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: @knifeandfox
• Facebook: @knifeandfox
• Other: dribbble.com/knifeandfox

Image Credit:
Knife and Fox, LLC