People
DVDL is an international strategy agency led by David van der Leer. Depending on each project’s needs, we bring together a group of experienced professionals for concept development, forecasting, research, project management, space programming, editorial, and graphic design work.
Our Team
David van der Leer, is a forecaster, educator, moderator, researcher, strategist, and writer. David’s passion is reinventing the institutions and public spaces of yesterday—and dreaming up the most inspirational institutions of tomorrow—through excellent design and interdisciplinary programs. David founded DVDL in 2018 after having worked and consulted with institutions, government agencies, corporations, and individuals for 15 years.
Learn more about David’s background, collaborations, and recognitions here.
Maria Budtz Sorensen is an urban sociologist and analyst who manages projects with DVDL, focusing on activation of urban spaces through programming, culture, and arts. Maria works to build equity into institutions and processes through a deep understanding of client, user, and community needs. Before coming to DVDL, she worked at AIA New York facilitating public programs on architecture and design. Maria holds an MA in Sociology from Copenhagen University and studied Urban Affairs at Queens College, CUNY.
Sherry Dobbin, FRSA, MA, BFA, is a Cultural Broker and Placemaking Advisor based in London, with over 35 years of experience in cultural delivery and strategic expertise across five continents. She identifies new opportunities for collaboration between artists and cultural organizations in both the commercial and public sectors, fostering transformational urban development and engaging new audiences. Sherry’s work focuses on creating vibrant public spaces that encourage community interaction and cultural exchange, ensuring that artistic initiatives not only enrich urban environments but also promote sustainable growth and inclusivity for diverse populations.
Alexander is a creative strategist adept at transforming research and analysis into unique brand solutions. Born and raised in Los Angeles, he is passionate about art, sports, film, food, fashion, and their intersections. He approaches everything with curiosity, seeking to uncover how storytelling can inspire deeper learning, listening, access, and connection. Alexander‘s experience includes developing brand identities for global organizations, holding strategic roles at renowned architectural design firms, and navigating the startup world. He holds a BA in Business Administration from Azusa Pacific University and studied Vocal Performance.
Vladimir is a designer, researcher, and writer with experience in an array of cultural enterprises. Prior to working at DVDL he was an experiential designer at Yellow Studio working for a range of media clients. Previously he has worked for the architecture office LOHA in Los Angeles, for the photographer Wolfgang Tillmans in Berlin, and as a writer and editor for ArchDaily. He holds Master in Architecture I and Master in Urban Planning degrees from the Harvard Graduate School of Design and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts.
Dubravka is a licensed architect and an independent practitioner with over 20 years experience on both residential and commercial projects. She has a working understanding of the financial structures inherent to building development. As co-founder of a non-profit collective, she believes every community deserves a vision. She is profoundly aware of the political, socio-economic and health impact that space programing and design can have on our micro and macro communities, and environments. Dubravka holds a Masters of Architecture
from the University of Zagreb, Croatia.
Prisilia is a design expert specializing in cultural strategy, seamlessly blending architecture, graphic design, publication, communication, and research. She holds a Master’s in Architecture from Pratt Institute GAUD and a BA from the University of Washington. She has honed her skills through editorial roles and significant contributions to architectural design projects. Her diverse background equips her to address complex cultural and design challenges.
Mary Claflin is a business leader with over 25 years’ experience spanning the entire spectrum of business operations. She excels at strategic vision and financial planning. She has held pivotal roles, including CFO, in organizations ranging from startup ventures to large corporations. She brings a wealth of insight and leadership. She holds a BBA in Management Information Systems from Texas A&M University.
David is creative strategist and content producer with extensive experience in transforming data and analysis into compelling brand solutions and projects. With a rich background in developing and executing multifaceted creative projects, David has worked with diverse cultural enterprises to enhance brand visibility and engagement. He excels at developing compelling narratives that resonate with global audiences. His passion for storytelling fuels his innovative approach, forging deeper connections and inspiring influential projects.
Kal is a product designer specializing in sculpture and furniture design. With a background in managing a ceramics studio, he brings experience in art and design research to his work. Currently, as an intern, Kal focuses on the research and development of urban planning and art direction. He is dedicated to exploring the intersection of functionality and aesthetics in design. At this time, he is pursuing his BA in 3D Design at Chelsea College of Arts in London, where he continues to refine his craft and broaden his artistic vision.
Alexandra is an Italian museum educator and researcher who envisions new ways of living the museum experience. Whether in research or project coordination work for our clients, Alexandra seeks out innovative ways to expand access to museums and to empower individuals through creative learning. She holds a B.A. in Art History from the Fashion Institute of Technology and an M.A. in Museum Anthropology from Columbia University.
Greg Barton is a researcher and curator focused on spatial politics. He holds a MS in Critical, Curatorial, and Conceptual Practices in Architecture from Columbia University GSAPP and has worked on projects for/with a number of artists, architects, activists, and nonprofit institutions, including the Canadian Centre for Architecture and Storefront for Art and Architecture. His texts have appeared in various places, most recently in The Museum is Not Enough (CCA/Sternberg Press).