By: Lana Hill

Maria Skakun’s journey in music video directing showcases her exploration of various artistic ventures and mediums, driven by a passion for creative storytelling. From her childhood in Chernogolovka, Russia, until the present day, she has tapped into her creative spirit to obtain a deep understanding of rhythmic gymnastics, dance, and music, each contributing to her eventual career in directing.

Roots of Creativity

Surrounded by creative influences, Maria initially pursued rhythmic gymnastics before transitioning to dance. She co-founded and led the dance department of “Art City,” a studio based in Chernogolovka, Russia, where she was the choreographic coach for several national dance champions. Her dance background laid the foundation for her directorial pursuits, where she discovered a passion for storytelling through motion and visual arts. This led her to co-found the “Carpe Diem Project,” a commercial dance community that fostered professional growth for dancers and teachers across Russia. “I needed to tell stories in full, including all types of perspectives,” she recalls, describing how she began shooting concept videos that blended choreography with cinematic storytelling.

Gaining Recognition and Making Strides

Maria’s concept videos quickly gained international recognition, with Thirty Seconds to Mars sharing her work globally. This propelled her into the international spotlight as many artists started to recognize her natural ability to craft narratives that resonate beyond borders. In 2018, she boldly moved to Los Angeles, expanding her career to new horizons. Since then, she has directed and choreographed music videos and performances for world-renowned artists such as Westside Boogie and Zach Villa. Most recently, she was hired by RWS Global to direct IP Mazes at Six Flags for Fright Fest, showcasing her versatility and creative reach.

The Skakun Approach

Maria’s directorial approach goes beyond creating something new; it’s about unleashing an artist’s full potential. “It’s about learning the artist’s essence and vision and then showcasing all of that to the audience,” she emphasizes. She is passionate about understanding the artist’s vision, collaborating to highlight their strongest aspects, and helping them tell their unique story. “Music videos are a powerful marketing tool for artists,” Maria explains, underscoring the importance of assisting artists in advancing their careers.

Her work with Fright Fest at Six Flags allowed her to push creative boundaries by working with non-actors and guiding them to channel their raw potential. Traveling across the U.S. and collaborating with companies such as RWS Global, 88Twenty, and Carnival Choreographers Ball further exemplified her adaptability and expertise in various creative environments. 

Acclaimed Achievements

Maria Skakun has received multiple prestigious awards for her music video direction, including accolades from the Global Music Awards, the Arts and Hearts Film Festival, and the Florence Film Awards. These honors recognize her creative and technical excellence and her dedication to evolving her craft. Each of these awards signifies her role as a leader in her field, consistently setting new standards for visual storytelling in music.

Her multiple wins at the Best Shorts Competition highlight her versatility across various genres—from the poignant intimacy of acoustic ballads to the vibrant energy of pop and hip-hop. This flexibility requires a refined directorial approach, as each genre demands a distinct visual language and pacing. Maria carefully layers mood and subtle expressions for ballads, crafting an atmosphere that allows viewers to connect deeply with the artist’s emotional journey. In contrast, her work in hip-hop and pop music leans into high-impact visuals, employing quick cuts, bold lighting, and kinetic camera movements that amplify the beat and energy of the music.

Beyond genre mastery, Maria’s dedication to showcasing the artist’s authentic self adds depth to her videos, making each project feel personal and distinct. Her ability to help artists express their unique identity on screen has become a hallmark of her work, resonating with audiences and industry professionals. This combination of versatility, technical skill, and artist-centered storytelling has not only earned her widespread acclaim but has also cemented her influence on the creative landscape.

Empowering Future Creatives

Beyond her accolades, Maria Skakun’s passion for mentorship shines through in her work with emerging and established artists alike. Her talent for amplifying others’ creative voices has profoundly influenced the careers of several musicians and performers. An example of her work includes collaborating with Zach Villa to develop a live show concept blending theatrical storytelling with dynamic visuals, aiming to enhance the overall performance and audience experience.

Maria collaborated with Cooper Phillip to direct a show that marked a significant moment in their work together. Drawing on Cooper’s musical style and personal brand, Maria designed a performance incorporating lighting, choreography, and stage direction to create a unique and engaging experience.

Her work with Carly Lind showcases yet another dimension of Maria’s mentorship. By helping Carly craft stunning visuals that resonated with her musical themes, Maria encourages her to connect with audiences on a much deeper level. Through her creative direction in music videos and live performances, she helps Carly present her music in a captivating and authentic way.

Maria focuses on supporting artists in shaping their performances, stage presence, and visual narratives. Her collaborative approach has made her a valued creative partner for those aiming to develop and refine their artistic expression.

Summary

Maria Skakun’s career reflects her dedication to creativity and storytelling. She has explored various artistic avenues, from choreographing dance teams to directing films and music videos. Her work includes collaborations with artists from different backgrounds and participation in competitions, showcasing her interest in diverse creative expressions. Maria’s ongoing projects highlight her commitment to capturing unique aspects of the human experience, leaving curiosity about what lies ahead in her journey.

Published by Jeremy S.