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Step 1
Get involved in all aspects of production. The easiest form to break into is theatre, and most training for production artists takes place in the theatre. You have to work your way up to become an actual designer, but being involved in all aspects will only help. Work with costumes or lighting if needed.
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Step 2
Know construction and how to build things. This can be learned at a very young age. Construction is a very big part of scenic design. Get summer construction jobs or get side jobs building fences, dog houses or anything.
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Step 3
Get involved in local theatres. Most will always accept volunteer help. Offer your skills to help build a set. This is the best way to get experience.
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Step 4
Learn about art, interior design and architecture. Knowledge in all of those areas will help you become the best scenic designer. All of those are considered when designing a set. Much knowledge in these areas is encouraged in a structured educational environment such as college, but take it upon yourself to have this knowledge.
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Step 5
Get a degree in design. A degree in production design will be found in theatre programs in colleges. Specialize in Set Design, and take classes in these areas. There is often much opportunity in college to get hands-on experience as well as build a portfolio. There are many colleges that offer a Bachelor of Arts or a Master of Fine Arts in set design.
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Step 6
Get as much experience as possible. Be willing to work for free or next to nothing in the beginning. Work for summer theatre festivals during breaks from school. This will gain experience and help attain professional contacts.
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Step 7
Apply for your dream job in Set Design. Emphasize all of your experience and education.
Comments
superstrada said
on 5/8/2009 This is a good article. I was always interested in set design; especially in Sci-Fi movies like the Matrix and Hellboy. I'm a contractor, so I'm good with my hands. But I guess I should take a few design classes specifically for set design.