Dennis Freedman named consulting creative director of Surface Media

By

Gabriella Lacombe

Published
Oct 16, 2019

Surface Media has named Dennis Freedman to the role of consulting creative director, effective immediately. 

Freedman was appointed by Diane Solway, the current editor-in-chief of Surface Media and the former features and culture director of W Magazine, of which Freedman was the founding creative director. W was acquired by Surface Media parent company, Future Media Group, from Condé Nast in June of this year. 

In the new role, Freedman will work closely with Solway as Surface Media “reimagines and expands its engagement with design, art, architecture, fashion, and travel,” the company said in a press statement, with a focus on building Surface Media's magazine, digital platforms, live experiences and strategic partnerships. 

"[Freedman’s] groundbreaking creativity and influence in the visual world is legendary and I am excited to be collaborating with him again in bringing Surface's brand and platforms to a new level of performance," said Solway. "Design is his passion and he will be instrumental as we expand our communities and dynamically connect our audiences with the innovators featured across our platforms." 

Previously, during Freedman's time at W, he elevated the magazine’s profile by publishing the works of prominent fashion photographers, including Philip Lorca di Corcia, Steven Klein, and David Sims. 

Outside of the magazine, Freedman also served as creative director of Barneys New York, where he spearheaded initiatives such as shoppable video content and collaborations with Lady Gaga, Jay Z, Baz Luhrmann, Miuccia Prada and John Galliano, as well as refreshed window projects with artists and photographers like Juergen Teller and Mario Sorrenti. 

"Over the years, I've had the opportunity to work with [Solway] and, together, we have curated some of the most dynamic stories and programming that I've done in my career," added Freedman. "I am looking forward to collaborating with her on the realization of her vision for Surface Media and its unparalleled ability to engage its audiences with the leading creatives of our time." 

In addition to W and Surface, Future Media Group’s portfolio also includes Watch Journal, a fine watches and lifestyle publication.