Photo: Courtesy of Ariel Glassman
How she got her start: Glassman describes her current role as the "synthesis of all that I have learned over the years" in a variety of hospitality-, art-, and music-related roles. "Projection mapping is complex and not widely understood or practiced," she says. "In 2016, clients did an event at The Temple House with projection mapping, and from the minute my partner Dan [Davidson, CEO of The Temple House] and I began to see the pixels being projected on the walls, we became obsessed and started researching how to have a permanent set-up."
United Projection was initially created as the in-house projection-mapping studio for The Temple House; now, the company also does selective events in off-site locations all over the world. "I love every aspect of projection, from the absolutely incredible ways it can be used, to the limitless creativity you can have with pixel painting," Glassman says.
What sets her company apart: "We have an amazing team, a phenomenal space, and an insanely cool, world-class set-up—and the way we put our shows together is unlike any other venue in the nation," she says, noting that Davidson and a technical team designed The Temple House's projection system to be extremely flexible. 
"Unlike the digital museum installations that are very popular right now, we don't have only one concept at a time to offer," Glassman says. "We curate every event, so each event and experience is totally unique. Clients can literally envision any theme they want, and we will create it."Photo: Courtesy of The Temple House
What innovation means to her: Glassman thinks that innovation is, in her words, "everything." "This technology is rapidly changing, so we work hard to stay ahead of the curve," she says. "From the projectors to the hardware, software, programming, and creative—we are constantly analyzing and improving."
Glassman also keeps a close eye on other possible channels for innovation, like Web3 and NFTs. "We knew we needed to be in the NFT space, so we now have an NFT platform that marries our physical space with artists to display their digital work," she explains.
Career highlights: "I love them all!" Glassman says when asked to name a favorite event. "I love the corporate, the weddings, the music shows, and everything in between—they are all so different." But a few that particularly stand out to her include working on private concerts for Shakira's album release, and a Puma fashion show where a producer gave her a list of songs and said "match the visuals—whatever you think." Glassman also calls out work the team did for Ferrari during Art Basel.
"We have done some really stellar NFT and digital art exhibits, [plus] car launches, a disco roller rink for Beauty Blender, and a great fashion show for the Pretty Little Thing brand," she remembers. "All with different visual themes, of course. I also love the fun, eccentrically-themed mitzvahs. An early one that sticks out was a pop-art theme where we got to go crazy with colors." 
"I love that every event is unique and that creativity is boundless," Glassman says.Photo: Courtesy of The Temple House
Her favorite thing about working in events: Glassman loves the thrill of watching everything come together, and the chance to work with such creative people and brands. "I love that every event is unique and that creativity is boundless. I love working with my internal team, and my partner Dan, owner of The Temple House, who has endless incredible visions," she says. "Of course, the best part of the event is seeing a client super happy!"
Back to the full list: Industry Innovators 2022: 13 Standout Event Vendors to Know About
