Work of Art Director

Work of Art Director:

The Art Director starts work when they receive the script and final schedule, detailing the precise shooting order of the scenes.

They analyse the script to identify all props or special items that may require longer lead times. At the same time, they oversee the drawing up of plans of sets and locations by Draughtsmen for the use of the Construction Managers and their teams.

On a big budget film or TV production, this can start four to five months before shooting. On low budget productions, it can be as little as four weeks.

It is the Art Director's job to realise the Production Designer's creative vision for all the sets and locations that eventually give productions their unique visual identity. They work on feature films, commercials and some types of television productions.

It's important for the Art Director to work across departments. They work with the relevant teams about any visual or computer-generated effects that may be required. They are involved in the use of any vehicles (from cars to horse-drawn carriages) and animals, and their on-set requirements, including kennelling in studios.

They liaise closely with the Location Manager to negotiate about when locations can be prepared. On big productions, they have weekly meetings with the Accountant. They must find cost-effective creative solutions which also provide practical answers to construction and decorating problems.

Reconnaissance

Tech Scout or Recce.

The Art Director along with the director, cameraman and production head visit the scene in order to clearly assess the location for the scene.

The Art Director also has to liaison with the VFX department.

His other task is:

Risk assessment

Viability of the Shoot & Budget.

Assess time of day