The Xtory Project is comprised of a lean, high-touch team that works in close constellation with in-house teams and production partners that are tailored for each assignment. Core members Xuanlana and Melissa have worked together for over twenty years starting with work rooted in public advocacy on the national Truth anti-tobacco campaign.
Given the history and the tenor of their work together on the ground and as a team, TXP strives to be a close ally and partner to all clients, centering human partnership and goals in all projects.
Xuanlana Nguyen
Founding Creative Director / Art, Mark, and Mischief-Maker
The Xtory Project is led by Xuanlana Nguyen, an artist, designer, mom, and strategist who has managed creative for purpose-driven partners for over twenty years—driving human-centered visual communications to engage audiences more deeply. She has worked with a diverse group of visionary partners that have included partners across education, climate, social justice, reproductive rights, immigrant rights, and reparations. Past partners have included Ronald McDonald House, Maker Education, Earthjustice, and the Children’s Creativity Museum.
Having studied at the Art Institute of Chicago and UC Berkeley, Xuanlana’s background is rooted in fine arts and community advocacy. And she informs her professional creative roles with deep acumen and sensitivity to the creative process and social impact.
Given this background, she is committed to creative partnership and its deep value to communities when done with sensitivity, intent, and respect.
Melissa pierce, mbA
Managing Director / Dot Connector, Curiosity Collector
Melissa Pierce is a documentary filmmaker and former tech start-up entrepreneur who is committed to working with organizations that either solve interesting problems or save the world. She is wildly creative, obsessive about optimizing process and communication, and at this point in her life has worn so many hats that she has become algorithmically problematic on the internet. At the Xtory Project, Melissa's title is 'Managing Director' which requires her to be part business manager, part project manager, and all heart.