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Celebrating 30 Years of PIER59 Studios

In 2026, PIER59 Studios, located in the heart of New York City, celebrates an impressive milestone—30 years of transformative influence on visual culture. Established in 1995, the studio has played a pivotal role behind many iconic images and performances that have captured the essence of artistic expression across various mediums.

PIER59 Studios began during a prolific time in the film industry, quickly distinguishing itself as a hub for high-fashion photography and larger editorial productions. As the landscape of media shifted dramatically toward digital platforms, PIER59 adapted intelligently, expanding into realms such as film, television, advertising, and live performances. This flexibility not only reflects the studio's innovative spirit but also showcases its commitment to the evolving ways in which stories are told.

Throughout these years, PIER59 has provided a creative space for some of the world's most celebrated artists, fashion photographers, and directors. Renowned figures like Steven Meisel, Annie Leibovitz, and Mario Testino have all fashioned defining works within its walls. Likewise, cultural icons such as Madonna, Beyoncé, and Naomi Campbell have graced its stages, solidifying PIER59’s reputation as a nexus of art and culture.

The studio's ability to converge entertainment, fashion, and media has attracted major brands like Vogue, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Nike, turning it into a production home for countless influential projects. PIER59 is not just about fashion; it's a vibrant environment where industries intersect, serving as a focal point for everything from runway shows, and live broadcasts to significant cultural summits, reinforcing its status as a creative destination.

Federico Pignatelli della Leonessa, the studio's visionary Founder and CEO, encapsulates the ethos of PIER59: "It was about creating an environment where artists and storytellers could evolve, from film to digital, from motion to virtual worlds. The studio harnesses emerging technologies, including AI, to augment the creative process rather than take away from it."

Today, as it celebrates its 30th anniversary, PIER59 is further embracing the future of storytelling with innovations like the Virtual Production Megaverse Stage. This advanced setup allows creators to work in real-time, merging physical and digital realms seamlessly, which is a testament to the studio's commitment to keeping pace with technological advancements. Through the integration of AI-driven tools across its production stages, PIER59 aims to facilitate smarter planning, bolster sustainability, and enrich creative collaboration.

In 2026, the studio will commemorate its legacy with a year-long celebration, including curated retrospectives showcasing its iconic imagery, large-scale anniversary events, and experimental showcases utilizing state-of-the-art production methods. This multi-faceted celebration illustrates the studio’s ongoing dedication to not only preserving its artistic history but also shaping the creative landscapes of tomorrow.

As it stands at the intersection of fashion, film, and immersive media, PIER59 continues to lead the charge into a future where creativity knows no bounds, forging a connected, collaborative, and technologically empowered artistic community.

PIER59 Studios Quick Facts

• - Founded: 1995
• - Location: Chelsea Piers, Pier 59, New York City, NY
• - Studio Size: 110,000 sq. ft. featuring 11 modular stages
• - Virtual Production: 65’ LED MegaWall, the largest in the Northeast
• - Noteworthy Collaborations: Vogue, Chanel, HBO, Disney, Adidas, and many more.

For those interested in exploring the creative heritage of PIER59 or arranging an on-site tour, inquiries can be directed through the studio's official channels.