About: Overview

Funny Garbage was created by a group of like-minded entrepreneurs at the beginning of the consumer Internet era. The company’s founders, John Carlin and Peter Girardi, were intrigued by the emerging medium and eager to explore new ways of developing content. Excited by this new technology, they made their first corporate acquisition—an Apple Macintosh LCIII—and carted it to their startup office on SOHO’s Spring Street in1997.

Peter’s interactive designs for ID Magazine brought early attention to the company. Adding Kristin Ellington as general manger ensured the staff and processes were in place to successfully manage the pioneering work that would follow, including projects for Nike and Compaq Computer.

Soon after, Cartoon Network approached Funny Garbage to create their first website. It was a dream job for the company. With the addition of creative directors Chris Capuzzo and Fred Kahl, the team created and managed the Cartoon Network’s groundbreaking website, interactive content, animation, and games for more than three years.

As the media and entertainment industry increasingly relied upon the Internet for its success, Funny Garbage evolved its capabilities to meet these needs. The company developed applications that would become industry standards, community tools, and user interfaces for clients such as Comedy Central, VH1, AMC, IFC and Nickelodeon. Andy Pratt joined the team as creative director to develop these new types of projects and to set the highest standards for the company’s creative development.

Funny Garbage takes pride in having balanced its corporate and nonprofit clientele from the start. The company’s commitment to cultural organizations has led to award-winning work for institutions such as the Smithsonian, American Museum of Natural History, Whitney Museum of American Art, New York Alliance for the Arts, and PBS. Moreover, John Carlin continues to lead The Red Hot Organization, a nonprofit committed to raising awareness and prevention of HIV/Aids.

Since its founding, the most important aspect of Funny Garbage has remained constant—its work culture. Central to its success is a collaborative environment where talent is nurtured and clients experience a clear and predictable production process. With this foundation, Funny Garbage produces award-winning work in the entertainment and cultural realms.

Today Funny Garbage is a firm of more than 40 professionals that develops creative and technological solutions to meet the diverse needs of its clients.