FRIEND have announced the signing of director Alice Kunisué to the company's UK roster. 

Kunisué is a director, photographer, illustrator, painter, animator and art director, who is known for an irreverent  comic style and inspired use of VFX and animation in brand films for the likes of Google, Hermés, Christian Louboutin and Nike, and in music videos for Vladimir Couchemar, Jacques and Franz Ferdinand.    

Born and raised in Tokyo, Kunisué studied political sciences in Montreal before settling in Paris. Her visual style emerged from her artistic experiments with cut-and-paste techniques, loops, illustrations and the rest; all evolving to a multilayered and multidimensional feast for the eyes - matched by her irreverent, absurdist sense of humour. 

“I’ve honestly been obsessed with Alice since I first watched her films, but when we finally met it was game over," says Ailie Robertson, Head of Sales at Friend. "What resonated with us all so much was Alice’s self-effacing, utterly original and joyful character that just sings through her work, as that’s who she is. Alice is a rare gem of an artist and person, and Friend are honoured to have her on board.”

On joining Friend, Alice says: “Meeting everyone at Friend was like finding a pod of dolphins in the middle of the ocean: magical and exhilarating! I instantly wanted to swim along with them and join their vibrant and playful energy. I’m so happy to embark on this journey together.”

Danny Herman, head of music video at FRIEND adds: "Alice is joy personified - an exceptional artist that we’re so excited to work with."

• Watch Alice Kunisué's showreel at FRIEND here