Mr Kaplin (Robert Glassford) — London, United Kingdom

“New technologies, such as 3D software, AI, and mobile apps, have significantly enhanced my creative process. I often reach for my phone or iPad before a pencil and paper. These digital tools help me express my ideas clearly, especially when my style—focused on simplicity and broad strokes—would be difficult to convey with traditional methods. Technology has made the creative process more accessible, allowing anyone—regardless of their background—to produce professional-looking work. However, this also raises questions about the balance between precision and emotional depth. Art should be meaningful, and while digital tools can enhance this, I still make a conscious effort to reconnect with traditional methods to maintain that emotional connection.”

Robert Glassford, known professionally as Mr Kaplin, is a London‑based 3D art and motion director with Scottish roots. Co‑founder of the award‑winning studio Mr Kaplin, he specialises in vibrant, character‑driven storytelling through clean, colourful visuals infused with unexpected dark undertones. His work spans high‑profile campaigns for brands including Sky, LEGO, Disney, British Airways, Ericsson and MTV, alongside experimental studio projects. Mr Kaplin’s striking films and animations—featured in Wired, Creative Review and Shots—combine playfulness with narrative depth, delivering unique visual experiences for film, television and digital media.