The Instagram and TikTok account for Wylie-based business, Already Been Chewed, are kaleidoscopes of bright colors, world-famous brands, and stunning animation. It’s easy to get lost in the feeds, scrolling through video after video of iconic brands we all know and love, watching videos we may even recognize. What may come as a surprise to locals, though, is that these videos are all created here in Wylie, Texas, by a world-class 3D animation studio tucked away in historic downtown.
Award-winning artist, motion designer, and avid skateboarder Barton Damer started his business in 2010. Today, Already Been Chewed (ABC) creates 3D animations to tell stories for the world’s biggest brands, from Louis Vuitton to Nike to Disney to Marvel.
Originally from Washington, D.C., Barton was familiar with downtown Wylie before he moved here. “I used to visit the skate shop on Ballard called Vertigo. I’m a skateboarder myself and knew of the historic street from coming to the skate shop, and skating the small skate park off Brown Street,” says Barton. In 2015, he moved his small business to town.
Working with iconic brands that are recognized by the entire world means you need to bring your “A” game every time you come to play – no exceptions. ABC excels at that, bringing innovation and exciting, fresh ideas and concepts to every client they work with.
When asked about how the company has evolved over the many years they’ve been in business, Barton says, “We’re constantly evolving. The technology continues to evolve, which means the way we approach creative is always changing. As a company, we used to offer print services, like laying out catalogs for Malibu Boats. But over the years, everything has gone digital, and we are now focused on 3D animated visuals for social media, broadcast, and live event content.”
Thriving in a fast-paced industry
Barton and his employees are thriving in this quickly changing landscape, which makes them the go-to choice for iconic brands looking for innovative ways to tell their stories and showcase what is unique and beautiful about their products.
When asked what he loves most about his job, Barton says it’s the opportunity to be creative and push himself as an artist and businessman.
Barton says the future of ABC is “constantly pivoting and maximizing opportunities. We will continue to adapt to the ever-changing technology that comes out. Our focus is the creative.”
Hiding behind the coffee shops and boutiques of quaint downtown Wylie, this little 3D motion studio powerhouse is doing big things. The future of Already Been Chewed is bright – even brighter than their gorgeous Instagram feed.