The big answer—create the look of a production—breaks down into many tasks. In turn, that means the art discipline encompasses many roles.

The art director supervises the department. Besides running the department, the art director is responsible for helping the director achieve their vision for the project. That means designing sets and managing locations to create the desired mood and atmosphere.

The art director relies on the talents of other members of the art department. These include:

● Set designer

● Set decorators

● Art department assistants

● Concept artists

● Model makers

The art department also works closely with the construction, props and production departments.

The art department is represented by IATSE and DGC.

Creativity

Members of the art discipline must visualize the sets and props that will suit the production.

Artistic ability

Once visualized, ideas are brought to life, refined and communicated by sketches and conceptual drawings.

Communication

Art directors need to be able to express their ideas concisely and clearly.

Filmmaking knowledge

The art department works with a wide range of skilled workers, including painters, carpenters, greens people. It helps if you can speak their language.

The art department is a challenging environment. It’s also crucial to the success of any project. All this makes it a great place for creative and inventive people to find great jobs.