Minneapolis, MN - (November 2nd, 2009) -- Leading visual effects supervisor and digital artist Randy Gackstetter has joined VOLT Studios. Gackstetter brings a high-end design sensibility and expansive visual effects experience to VOLT Studios, expanding the company's core creative offerings.

"I was well into my search for the right Creative Director/Flame Artist when I decided to call Randy. I knew it was a long-shot as he was well established in the market, but I told him that I wasn't going to leave any stone unturned," recalls Steve Medin, VOLT Studios' Co-Founder. "We had coffee one day, and we didn't stop talking until he came onboard. Turns out, he was the perfect guy all along."

"Randy is incredibly talented, has deep experience and is an exceptionally nice guy," adds VOLT Studios' Co-Founder/EP Charlie Lach. "His addition reflects our increasing participation in early creative development and we are excited to have him at VOLT."

Gackstetter's newly built room at VOLT Studios is a combination art studio, working lounge and an insert stage for design elements. The hybrid use is perfect for Gackstetter who is a flame artist, creative director and specialty shooter in one. Accordingly, he is an advocate of idea-centric approaches, employing fine art tools and computer-driven executions as directed by the needs of the project.

Gackstetter is known in the commercial industry for his work on the iconic red and white Target campaigns, the AICP Show honored PSA "Driving to Work" and projects for National Geographic, Porsche, Discovery, as well as the Alberto-Culver "Project Runway" campaign. He collaborated extensively with directing duo Harder/Fuller on a wealth of popular music videos for Incubus, Barenaked Ladies, and Foo Fighters, among others. Recently, he worked with director Philip Harder of Bob Industries on a :15 Smirnoff spot that combined 2D, 3D, and practical effects featuring flare bartenders in action.

A native of Minnesota, Gackstetter was an early adopter of digital image enhancement, manipulation and design. Armed with degrees in fine arts and computer graphics, he first worked at WCCO TV, earning Emmy awards and BDA Awards as Sr. Director of on-air identity. He then co-founded Pixel Farm where he expanded into commercial, music videos and creative explorations with agencies and directors.

"I love the close-knit environment at VOLT Studios and the fact that they are always looking to stretch creatively while giving quality attention to clients and their projects," concludes Randy. "We all love to experiment and channel that interest in ways that best serve the end project so it's a great match for all of us."

For additional info on the company and to view recent projects visit: http://www.voltstudios.tv.