Bart Timmer’s passion for film started early. As a teenager, Bart and his older brother were already passionate about filming funny stories. From 1992 to 1996, Bart studied Film & Television Science at the University of Amsterdam. He then focused on directing and attended film school in Amsterdam.
During his time at the Film Academy in the Netherlands, Bart began working as a video assistant. Starting with tasks like moving cables and serving as a production assistant, Bart quickly transitioned into directing commercials. His professional growth as a leading commercial director went hand in hand with the rise of some of the most talked-about creative teams in the Netherlands.
Bart’s storytelling strengths lie in his extreme attention to detail, impeccable timing, and dry sense of humor. He pairs this with a genuine sensitivity toward people, skillfully directing actors to unlock their full potential. This has earned him recognition as one of the top international commercial directors.
Shots magazine named Bart one of the Top 10 directors worldwide. He has directed award-winning commercials for brands like Heineken, VW, Amstel, and Centraal Beheer. His work has earned numerous accolades, including Lions at Cannes, several Eurobests, Clio Awards, D&AD Pencils, and Gold and Silver at the New York Festival. Bart has also won Gold at the Spotlight Festival, and numerous awards from ADC Netherlands, Germany, and Switzerland.
In 2017, Bart’s VW Laughing Horses dominated festivals worldwide, including Cannes, Epica Awards, Effie, Eurobest, New York Festival, and ADC Germany and ADC Europe.
Since then, Bart has received Silver and Bronze at the ADC Switzerland for his work on Migros Bio, as well as a Silver Edi for Denner Trag Mehr Nach Hause.