David Bartels’ 15 Minutes

While David Bartels is not a household name, the writers, artists and directors he has worked with definitely are. He was an understudy to Joe Sedelmaier, a creative partner of John Hughes, the brain behind Joe Camel and almost the producer of a Broadway play directed by Andy Warhol.

In this short film, David shares lessons and impressions taken from his 50 years as an art director during the ad industry’s most innovative era. This is his 15 minutes of fame.

Directors: Noah Readhead and Matt Richmond
Producers: Jon Michael Ryan and Noah Readhead
Release Date: 2025