Meet Drew Iwankiw | President, and Chief Creative Officer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Drew Iwankiw and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Drew, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
The most important factor behind my success and brand is having passion, authenticity and consistency. Staying true to my vision, being intentional about building genuine connections, and showing up consistently in my work have been key. The success of AR FIRM—has always been a unique focus of creative vision and a willingness to keep evolving. Faith also plays a major role. Trusting my journey, even when the path isn’t clear, has helped me push through challenges and continue building. Success wasn’t overnight, but staying purpose-driven, resilient, and open to learning has been my winning formula.

Since co-founding the AR studio in 2016, I’ve worn many hats: designer, producer, creative director, and sometimes all three at once. I’m a creative director and multidisciplinary designer who creates experiences that mix tech and reality. I’ve directed everything from immersive activations for InsomniacVIP events and most recently experiential marketing projects for a Mindcraft Movie to smart murals for world -renowned street artists like Robert Vargas and Wyland.

I’m proud to have helped shape the company into one of the first full-service AR studios in Los Angeles. Innovation drives me forward, but it’s the people and the purpose behind each project that really make it meaningful. Augmented Reality right now is hot, and a new age is dawning in tinsel town.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
About Drew Iwankiw & AR FIRM
I’m born and raised in Los Angeles and grew up in the San Gabriel Valley. I am also a proud first generation Ukrainian American to call the Pasadena area community the home where I’m raising my family in. I graduated with a degree in Fine Arts / New Media from the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena. After college, I took various ad agency and design studios jobs before working at Marvel Studios and BLT Communications as a theatrical print designer.
But the journey hasn’t been easy. There’s no roadmap for success in New Media, and I had to learn through trial and error. I’ve faced challenges like navigating the industry without a mentor, dealing with people who only want to use my connections, and overcoming self-doubt. Tenacity and consistency will take you further than talent alone. Not everyone will support you, and that’s okay. The right people will find you. Also, relationships matter. This industry isn’t just about who you know, but who genuinely believes in your work. Fellowship, discernment, and staying true to my vision have helped me push through to start my own business. I started AR FIRM, a pioneering augmented reality studio that provides expertise in creating immersive interactive experiences for marketing agencies, game studios, live event producers, museums, filmakers and commercial real -estate developers. The mission behind the studio is to help brands craft digital experiences, and confidently venture into new media and technology. Whether we’re collaborating with artists, or building branded extended reality activations, our goal remains the same: to create meaningful, immersive experiences that leave a memorable lasting impact. My brand is about more than just Augmented Reality, it’s about inspiring others, creating opportunities, and showing that dreams are possible. Hold on, because there’s so much more to come!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
A Creative Week in Eastside LA: My Favorite Hidden Gems
When my best friend comes to visit, I want to give them a taste of what makes life on LA’s Eastside so inspiring—where heritage, art, and culture intersect on every corner. We kick things off in Pasadena, strolling through the Huntington Library and Gardens to soak in art, cool books, and the serene botanical beauty. Then it’s straight to Old Town Pasadena for coffee at Copa Vida and handmade pasta at Union.

Midweek, we explore the artistic pulse of Lincoln Heights, where the LA River bike path offers urban views and street art, and local galleries and murals tell stories that come alive. I love taking friends to Airliner, Griffith Observatory and we often stop by Eagle Rock for live music, and good Italian food.

We’ll spend a day hiking at Eaton Canyon, recharge at Self-Realization Fellowship in Mt. Washington, and catch a film at the Pasadena Laemmle Theater—a perfect blend of community and good vibes.By the end of the week, my friend leaves with a full heart (and camera roll), having experienced the spirit of Eastside LA: Pasadena, a mix of deep so cal roots, historic landmarks, and where imagination thrives. It’s not just about showing them the city—it’s about showing them why I love calling this my home. LA is full of energy, culture, and unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s food, nightlife, history, or adventure, this itinerary gives a little bit of everything to make a visit unforgettable!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to extend my sincerest gratitude to Michael Gao Shan and Yili at Halona Art Studio— your creative energy, collaboration, and belief in the power of
art education storytelling continue to inspire me. A heartfelt thank you as well to my family, whose unwavering support and encouragement have grounded me through every creative leap and challenge. This journey wouldn’t be possible without your encouragement and love. Most of all thank you Pasadena for continuing to inspire me and teaching me perseverance and giving me strength.

Website: https://thearfirm.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thearfirm/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ar-firm-636a4212/