Projection Studio Blog

Ross Ashton & Karen Monid: Pioneers of Light, Sound and Projection Mapping

When it comes to creating unforgettable projection mapping experiences, few creative partnerships have had as much impact on the industry as Ross Ashton and Karen Monid, the driving force behind The Projection Studio.

For decades, the duo have been pushing the boundaries of what is possible with light, sound and large-scale projection, transforming historic buildings, monuments, public spaces and cultural landmarks into immersive storytelling experiences seen by millions around the world.

Ross Ashton: Transforming Architecture Through Light

As Creative Director of The Projection Studio, Ross Ashton is recognised internationally as one of the leading figures in projection mapping and architectural projection.

A multi-award-winning Projection Artist, Show Designer, Projection System Designer, Producer and Consultant, Ross has spent his career exploring the relationship between artwork and architecture. His instinctive understanding of how light interacts with structures enables him to create projections that enhance and celebrate the surfaces they illuminate rather than simply using them as screens.

In recognition of his contribution to the industry, Ross was named AV Professional of the Year by AV Magazine in 2019, honouring his pioneering work at the forefront of video projection mapping design.

His portfolio spans some of the world’s most iconic buildings and public spaces, with specially commissioned son et lumière productions attracting international acclaim. From national commemorations and heritage celebrations to major public events, Ross has created large-scale projection spectacles for governments, cultural organisations and audiences across the globe.

Beyond architectural projection, his expertise has been sought for film and television productions, theatre performances, classical concerts and rock and roll events, demonstrating the versatility of his creative vision.

Karen Monid: Creating Soundscapes That Bring Stories to Life

Behind every powerful visual experience is a soundtrack capable of transporting audiences, and that is where Karen Monid’s unique expertise comes into its own.

A sound artist and projection specialist, Karen began her career in theatre sound production before developing a specialism in scenic and architectural projection. Her background combines technical excellence with artistic creativity, supported by a First Class BA (Hons) in Humanities with Art History and Music, alongside a BTEC HND in Technical Theatre from the Central School of Speech and Drama.

Karen creates immersive sound artworks, bespoke soundscapes and original soundtracks for projection installations around the world. Her work is deeply influenced by history and heritage, with a particular fascination for recreating lost sound environments and bringing forgotten stories back to life through audio.

Her expertise extends to spoken word, language and sound design, with projects featured on BBC Radio 3. This distinctive combination of skills allows her to create sound experiences that add depth, emotion and atmosphere to large-scale projection productions.

A Creative Partnership Built on Storytelling

Together, Ross Ashton and Karen Monid have developed a collaborative approach that seamlessly blends visual and audio storytelling.

Their work goes far beyond simply projecting images onto buildings. Every project is carefully designed to create an emotional connection between audiences and the stories being told. Ross’s mastery of architectural projection combined with Karen’s immersive sound design creates experiences that are both visually spectacular and deeply engaging.

Whether illuminating historic landmarks, commemorating significant events, or delivering large-scale public art installations, their productions demonstrate how light and sound can transform spaces and inspire audiences.

The Future of Projection Mapping

As projection mapping technology continues to evolve, Ross Ashton and Karen Monid remain at the forefront of innovation. Through The Projection Studio, they continue to explore new creative possibilities, combining cutting-edge projection techniques with powerful storytelling to create memorable experiences for audiences worldwide.

Their work stands as a testament to the power of collaboration between image and sound, proving that when architecture, light and audio come together, extraordinary things can happen.

Looking for an award-winning projection mapping team for your next event or heritage project? The Projection Studio combines decades of international experience in large-scale projection, immersive sound design and visual storytelling to create unforgettable experiences for audiences around the world. Get in touch.

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