AI Studio Asteria Names Don Allen Stevenson III Creative AI Pipeline Director

EXCLUSIVE: AI film and animation studio Asteria has appointed DreamWorks Animation vet Don Allen Stevenson III as Creative AI Pipeline Director.

Stevenson, a former artist trainer for DWA, is a prominent voice in generative AI. His new post will involve combining artistic talent with AI-powered tools to fill the company’s animation pipeline.

The hire follows that of filmmaker Paul Trillo, who came aboard last December as a strategic partner to lead Asteria’s artist-focused approach to incorporating AI into the creative process.

The emerging company, founded and led by documentary filmmaker Bryn Mooser, owns documentary outfit XTR and FAST channel Documentary+. It recently expanded and rebranded after a previous iteration when it was known as XTR, signaling a shift in focus toward AI. Last year, the company acquired Late Night Labs, a firm launched last spring with an advisory team including Poker Face star Natasha Lyonne and Blue Beetle director Angel Manuel Soto.

“We are thrilled to welcome Don to lead our creative pipeline development,” Mooser said. “He brings a passion for leveraging exponential technologies to push boundaries, inspire artists, and shape the future of storytelling.” 

Stevenson has become a prominent voice in generative AI, serving as a Masterclass instructor and collaborating with tech leaders, Asteria said in an announcement. Last year, Stevenson published the book, Make a Seat, which offers strategies for “future-proofing” careers through creativity and technology.

“Asteria is setting a new standard for how AI and artistry can work hand in hand,” Stevenson said. “I’m excited to join a studio that prioritizes artists and pioneers the first-ever clean model technology, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in animation and storytelling.”