Krishna Stott is an interactive storyteller and creative director known for participatory narratives and audience-led experiences. His work focuses on how emerging technologies, from interactive systems to AI, can be used to create emotionally meaningful, shared stories.
1995–2008Early Interactive Practice
During this period, Krishna developed and tested interactive story systems, networked narratives and experimental online formats. His work was shown internationally and helped establish techniques for audience participation that continue to inform his practice today.
2008Webby Awards & Founding Bellyfeel
Krishna’s interactive film Crimeface won two Webby Awards, bringing international attention to his approach to participatory storytelling. In response to growing interest from broadcasters and cultural organisations, he founded Bellyfeel as a studio dedicated to audience-first interactive stories.
2008–PresentCompelling Interactive Stories
Through Bellyfeel, Krishna has led the development, production and consultancy of interactive films, narrative games, social and live formats, and experimental media projects. His work spans broadcasters, production companies, universities and cultural organisations across the UK and Europe, with a focus on experiences where audiences actively shape the story.
2008–PresentInnovation, R&D & Systems Thinking
Alongside his studio practice, since 2025 Krishna has also been Head of Innovation and Ideation at MITIH, MediaCityUK’s immersive technology innovation hub. In this role, he leads strategic R&D across AI, immersive media, spatial storytelling and collaborative formats, connecting creators, technologists, academics and industry partners to test bold ideas in public.
Krishna’s work combines creative direction with research, facilitation and mentoring. He regularly raises funding for experimental projects (over £3m to date), runs innovation labs and sprints, and supports teams in turning early concepts into viable, scalable experiences.
He is the author of Set the Storyworld to Random, a guide to storytelling in new media, and the founder of The Modern Audience Conference, which brings together creators, researchers and industry professionals to explore participation, narrative design and audience psychology.
Krishna also speaks internationally at media festivals, conferences and universities, focusing on interactive storytelling, creative use of AI, and how audiences engage with stories in social and live contexts.
Across all of his work runs a consistent approach – audience-first thinking, technological curiosity, and a commitment to experimentation. He continues to make new work, test ideas in public, and explore the evolving relationship between story, technology and participation.