The Art Director for a film or video project helps to turn artistic vision into cinematic reality.
Art Directors are responsible for working hand in hand with the Production Designer to bring a production its visual identity.
An Art Director may work on feature films, documentaries, television productions and advertising projects.
While many art direction skills are learned by gaining experience on the job, education and natural talent are foundational to success.
The best Art Directors cultivate a diverse skill set that includes the ability to work well with the Director and other staff, conceptualize an artistic vision, and bring it to fruition.
The ability to multitask, prioritize, lead and work with others, and fluidly navigate deadlines and budget considerations is crucial to success as an Art Director.
Play to your strengths
The skills required to be an effective film and video Art Director include:
Strong creative, visual, conceptual and artistic capacity
Knowledge of the principles of architecture, perspective and interior design
An understanding of the other componentss of film making such as camera work, editing, lighting, props and sound
Strong organizational, big-picture and leadership skills
Diversify
The Art Director role is related to the following other positions in the film world and creative arts:
1. Art Department Assistant
2. Production Designer
3. Director
4. Set Designer
5. Storyboarding Expert
6. Theatre Production Design
7. Architecture, Interior Design and 3D Design