Scenic Artist
The Scenic Artist (SA) supervises the application of all painted and textural finishes on all scenic and prop units; the SA is assisted by the paint crew.
Duties during the Planning Period:
l. Read the script and become familiar with the production concept.
2. Study the designs (rendering or model) and the paint elevations in conference with the Designer.
3. Determine the methods of painting to be used in consultation with the Designer.
4. Conduct experiments with the painting techniques discussed; check the results with the Designer before beginning painting.
5. Estimate and order needed paint materials and equipment. All purchases must be approved, in advance, by the Paint TA.
6. Prepare a schedule and sequence of tasks, in consultation with the Designer, Technical Director (TD) and Master Carpenter (MC). Determine the distribution of time and space needed.
Duties during the Work Period:
l Supervise the work of the paint crew. Before beginning the project outline the work schedule and scenic requirements with the crew; train them in the painting technique(s) to be used.
2. Supervise the preparation of all stencils.
3. Prepare all flats that come out of storage for painting. Back-paint all units with a paint/flame-proofing solution.
4. Prepare and label all paints consistently as needed on a daily basis.
5. Direct crew members how to use spray equipment, when required, only with the prior approval of the Designer and TD.
6. Supervise the finishing coats and painting of all props.
7. Direct the crew to clean all equipment and the paint shop thoroughly following each work session. Return materials to their assigned place; save all paint that can be used again; cover all paint and glue containers.
8. Coordinate the paint schedule with the scenery construction schedule in consultation with the TD and MC.
Duties during the Technical Rehearsal and
Performance Period:
l. Assist in moving the scenery to the stage, as directed by the TD.
2. Perform touch-up or repainting tasks when the scenery is on stage as noted by the Designer
Duties during the Clean-up Period:
l. Consolidate left-over paint for future use as a base coat.
2. Reorganize and clean up the paint area as soon as the scene shop is cleared of scenery.
3. Direct the final cleanup of the paint shop and equipment during strike. When finished, assist other crews. One crew is not finished until everyone is finished.
Line of Responsibility:
1. Your immediate supervisor is the Scene Designer, followed by the Paint TA.