KYRA BARTLEY

 

Kyra Bartley is an Australian director whose work moves fluidly between the poetic and the grounded, celebrated for storytelling that’s equal parts beautiful, unguarded and emotionally true.

Recently named Shots Director of the Year for Asia Pacific, Kyra’s career has been defined by a multidisciplinary approach—born from a background in fine art, animation and post-production—that lends a singular aesthetic and narrative boldness to her work. Whether crafting raw, human-centred stories or constructing surreal visual worlds, she brings an unmistakable intimacy to every frame.

Her commercial portfolio spans global campaigns for brands such as Google, Vodafone and UNHCR, and has been recognised at major international award shows including Cannes, D&AD, Ciclope, Shots and AWARD.

Kyra’s storytelling instincts were forged in unconventional ways. She got kicked out of art school because she spent all her time filming horses. She went on to build Cambodia’s first professional animation studio, and has since made a name for herself as a filmmaker who thrives in the deep end—emotionally, logistically, creatively.

In addition to her commercial work, Kyra is drawn to more personal storytelling that explores legacy, loss, and the stories that live on in the things we leave behind. Her creative practice continues to be shaped by a curiosity for the human condition and a desire to challenge the expected, blending live action with animation, documentary with fiction, grief with humour.

She’s happiest when the story’s got teeth to sink into, heart to hold onto, and just enough chaos to keep things interesting.