Manon Dave on Redefining Simplicity in Tech and Design with Idris Elba

Form From Less is not just any agency; it’s a creative technology studio built on the philosophy that simplicity drives the most impactful results. Co-founded by AI visionary and engineer Manon Dave and acclaimed actor, musician, and entrepreneur Idris Elba, the agency was officially launched at the Barcelona-based creative festival Blend. Its mission is to fuse art, technology, and culture into meaningful products and experiences that resonate deeply with audiences.

At the heart of Form From Less lies the belief that by stripping back to the essentials, ideas can evolve into transformative solutions that are innovative, accessible, and culturally significant. Guided by their "Anchor, Craft, and Transform" process, the agency ensures every project is purpose-driven, seamless in execution, and adaptable in an ever-changing digital landscape.

In this interview, I sit down with Manon Dave to explore the vision behind Form From Less, the creative synergy with Idris Elba, and how the agency plans to redefine the intersection of design, technology, and accessibility. From its unique philosophy to its commitment to cultural relevance, Manon offers insights into what makes Form From Less a standout player in the creative technology space.

Can you tell us about the inspiration behind launching Form From Less? What vision led you and Idris Elba to create this agency together?

We both wanted to create an agency that fuses the worlds of art, technology, and culture, using cutting-edge tools to make products and experiences that resonate on a deep, emotional level.

The name itself, Form From Less, captures our philosophy

The name itself, Form From Less, captures our philosophy: we believe that the most profound, impactful creations often come from stripping things back to their core, allowing simplicity and purpose to shine through.

What was it like to co-found a company with Idris Elba, blending your backgrounds in technology and entertainment? How do you each bring unique elements to the agency?

Idris and me both push each other to think outside the box, and that synergy is what will drive the agency forward. Idris’s perspective on culture, storytelling, and the emotional impact of a product or experience is complemented by my focus on the simplicity and functionality that makes things work. Together, we’re building something that speaks to both the head and the heart, making technology more human and creativity more accessible.

The philosophy of Form From Less emphasises simplicity and impact. Could you elaborate on what “Form From Less” means to you personally and how it guides your work?

The core philosophy of Form From Less is centred around doing the most with what’s available: relying on skills, imagination, and the tools at hand – whether that’s technology or design. It's about turning limitations into a catalyst for innovation, creating something impactful from what might initially seem like "nothing." For me, it’s a mindset that transforms scarcity into possibility, and that’s what drives and guides my approach to every project.

Your process includes the phases "Anchor, Craft, and Transform." Could you walk us through each phase and explain how they collectively ensure impactful project outcomes?

Of course. The first phase is about anchoring the project to its core insight. This is the stage where we ask: What makes this project unique? What problem does it solve, and what value does it offer? By anchoring the idea to this foundational clarity, we ensure that every decision moving forward is aligned with the project's core purpose.

At this stage, we focus on gathering insights, understanding the target audience, and clearly defining the project's vision and goals.

Once we have a clear and anchored foundation, we move into the craft phase. This is where we begin to bring the project to life, combining design, technology, and creativity to amplify the core idea. With the goal to create something that feels both effortless and impactful, this phase brings the idea into a tangible form, one that is not only functional but also emotionally resonant.

The final phase, transform, is about taking the project live and ensuring it remains relevant over time. This phase ensures that the project remains relevant in a fast-changing world, sustaining its impact long after the initial launch.

Together, the "Anchor, Craft, and Transform" phases create a cohesive process that ensures impactful outcomes.

What do you think is the most crucial element of simplicity in design and technology? How do you balance simplicity with innovation at Form From Less?

The most crucial element of simplicity in design and technology is clarity – ensuring that the purpose of a product or experience is immediately understood and intuitively accessible. Simplicity isn’t about stripping things down to their bare minimum. It’s about thoughtfully removing unnecessary complexity while preserving functionality and meaning.

At Form From Less, we balance simplicity with innovation by focusing on purpose-driven design. Every project starts with a clear understanding of the audience’s needs and challenges. From there, we leverage new technologies as tools to enhance, not overcomplicate, the experience. Innovation for us doesn’t mean adding layers –it means finding smarter ways to achieve impact without losing focus on clarity and usability.

How did your previous experiences in AI, music, and design influence the approach you’re taking with Form From Less? 

My previous experiences in AI, music, and design have profoundly shaped the philosophy behind Form From Less. Throughout those journeys, I’ve witnessed an incredible amount of talent and untapped potential within these communities, as well as the barriers many people face in realising their full potential.

The inspiration comes from the idea of making the most of what you have – relying on skills, imagination, and accessible tools to create something extraordinary from seemingly nothing. This philosophy has been at the heart of all my past projects, whether in AI, music, or design. It’s about embracing constraints and using them as a catalyst for creativity and innovation, and that same mindset drives every aspect of what we’re building with Form From Less.

How does Form From Less approach accessibility in its projects? Why is this such an essential aspect of your agency's mission?

Form From Less was founded with a deep commitment to tackling accessibility challenges. We’ve dedicated ourselves to creating inclusive solutions, such as Talking Scripts, to ensure that those often overlooked by the industry are given the consideration they deserve.

I firmly believe in dismantling obstacles for individuals who lack the resources or opportunities to succeed

For us, accessibility extends beyond physical or cognitive ability—it also includes addressing socioeconomic barriers. I firmly believe in dismantling obstacles for individuals who lack the resources or opportunities to succeed. With projects like Akuna, we strive to create meaningful impact for those without access to paid opportunities. This dedication to inclusivity is at the very core of our agency's mission, shared by both Idris and me.

Could you share more about the kind of brands and projects you’re looking to partner with? What qualities or values resonate with Form From Less?

Our goal is to help brands establish culturally rich, meaningful foundations that forge genuine connections, creating experiences that truly resonate with their audiences. Thus, Form From Less will aim look to partner with brands dedicated to developing innovative products and consumer experiences that cater to diverse audiences.

In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, how does Form From Less ensure that its work stays relevant and continues to resonate post-launch?

In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, staying relevant post-launch requires continuous adaptation and foresight. At Form From Less, we prioritise not only addressing current needs but also anticipating future trends and societal shifts.

By closely monitoring emerging pattern, we ensure our campaigns remain effective over time. This proactive, forward-thinking strategy allows us to scale, enhance capabilities, and maintain lasting relevance in an ever-evolving world.

With so many agencies out there, what do you feel truly differentiates Form From Less in the creative technology space?

We are addressing a critical gap: the absence of agencies operating at the intersection of cutting-edge technology and cultural integration. Driven by our passion for creating meaningful, culturally relevant stories and campaigns, we saw an opportunity to bridge this divide. That’s where we step in. By connecting innovation with cultural resonance, Form From Less creates truly impactful work.

What are some challenges you anticipate as a new agency in this competitive market, and how do you plan to overcome them?

As a new agency, one of the biggest challenges is standing out in an oversaturated market where countless players are vying for attention. This is especially true in industries like ours, where buzzwords like "innovation" and "AI" dominate the narrative.

We believe the key to differentiation lies in purpose-driven innovation. At Form From Less, our approach is rooted in simplicity and meaningful impact. We aim to craft solutions that are genuinely useful and resonate deeply with our audience, and by cutting through the noise with clear ideas, we can build credibility and make our mark in this competitive landscape.

How does the team at Form From Less integrate new technologies without losing sight of your simplicity-focused mission?

At Form From Less, we see technology as a driver of progress and a tool for simplification when used thoughtfully. Our team’s strength lies in deeply understanding traditional fields and creatively merging them with new technologies to create innovative solutions.

Our team’s strength lies in creatively merging traditional fields with new technologies

By staying true to our simplicity-focused mission, we ensure that every project is purpose-driven, carefully crafted, and adaptable to the evolving needs of its audience. Technology plays a vital role in this, not as a distraction from simplicity, but as a means to enhance it – helping us deliver meaningful outcomes with clarity and efficiency.

Could you give us a sneak peek into any upcoming projects or collaborations we can expect from Form From Less?

Our focus will be on laying the foundations not only for our own projects but also for future collaborations. We’re eager to support and amplify the voices and talent within dynamic industries.

What advice would you give to other creatives and entrepreneurs trying to innovate in the intersection of technology, art, and design?

Create first. The purpose often emerges through the act of creating. Rediscovering the ability to innovate through play is essential. As you work, immerse yourself in the process and let the essence of the problem you’re trying to solve reveal itself. Innovation isn’t just about the final product—it’s about exploring, experimenting, and allowing the journey to guide you.

Finally, looking ahead, what is your ultimate vision for Form From Less? How do you hope the agency will influence the future of digital experiences and brand transformation?

Looking ahead, our ultimate vision for Form From Less is to help brands navigate complexity and create experiences that are both innovative and timeless. Whether it’s through new product launches, rebrands, or campaign innovations, our goal is to empower brands to engage audiences in meaningful ways while adapting to the needs of a more mature and conscientious consumer base.

We envision Form From Less as a transformative guide

We envision Form From Less as a transformative guide, helping brands uncover untapped opportunities by aligning innovation with authenticity. By fostering deeper connections and creating impactful experiences, we hope to influence the future of digital experiences and brand transformation in ways that resonate both now and for generations to come.