Scenic & Set Dressing Workshop for Film & TV
LOCATION: Kingston, NY
IMPORTANT DATES:
Application Deadline: February 17 @ 5pm
App Review and Interviews: January 28 - February 20
Acceptance Announcement: February 21
Workshop Begins: Saturday March 8
Dive into the world of scenic artistry and set dressing with our comprehensive, hands-on Scenic and Set Dressing Workshop. Whether you're looking to break into the film and television industry or enhance your on-set skills, this workshop provides the tools and knowledge to prepare you for a role in the art department as a set dresser or scenic artist.
Led by seasoned professionals with real-world experience, you'll gain an insider's understanding of the techniques and teamwork that bring sets to life. From mastering scenic painting techniques to understanding how to dress a set for the camera, this workshop covers everything you need to get started as a Production Assistant (PA) in these vital departments.
ABOUT WORKSHOP:
SCHEDULE:
SESSION 1: SATURDAY, MARCH 8
9:00 AM โ 5:00 PM
SESSION 2: SUNDAY, MARCH 9
9:00 AM โ 5:00 PM
SESSION 3: SATURDAY, MARCH 15
9:00 AM โ 5:00 PM
SESSION 3: SUNDAY, MARCH 16
9:00 AM โ 5:00 PM
WHAT YOUโLL LEARN:
Days 1 & 2: Scenic Techniques
Introduction to scenic painting: tools, materials, and best practices.
Hands-on practice with aging, faux finishes, and textures.
Breakdown of on-set protocols and working with other departments.
Days 3 & 4: Set Dressing Fundamentals
Sourcing, selecting, and arranging set pieces.
Dressing a set for continuity and camera angles.
Hands-on scene dressing exercises.
Identifying furniture.
What tools are needed.
Practical applications.
JOB DESCRIPTIONS:
Scenic Artist
A scenic artist is responsible for creating and enhancing visual elements of sets. Their work often includes painting backdrops, walls/flats, and props, as well as applying textures and finishes to bring a design to life. Key responsibilities include:
Painting detailed backdrops and murals for sets.
Applying techniques such as aging, faux finishes, and trompe-l'ลil.
Sculpting and carving set pieces from materials like foam or wood.
Collaborating closely with the art director to ensure the design matches the director's vision.
Maintaining tools and materials while adhering to safety protocols.
Set Dresser
A set dresser is tasked with arranging furniture, props, and decor to create the intended look and feel of a scene. They work to ensure continuity and that every detail aligns with the production's artistic direction. Key responsibilities include:
Placing and arranging furniture, props, and decor on set.
Ensuring continuity by documenting and maintaining the positioning of all items.
Making on-the-fly adjustments to optimize for camera angles and lighting.
Collaborating with the art director, props team, and other departments to execute the vision.
Who should attend: This workshop is ideal for beginners interested in working in the scenic or set dressing departments, as well as those looking to expand their behind-the-scenes knowledge of the film and television industry. No prior experience is necessary.
Whatโs included:
28 hours of in-depth, practical training across 4 days.
Access to all materials and tools needed for workshop activities.
Networking opportunities with instructors and industry professionals.
Certificate of Completion upon finishing the workshop.
Registration Fee: $699 (full scholarships available for up to 15 trainees)
This program welcomes all community members and actively seeks participation from individuals from diverse backgrounds, women, and others historically underrepresented in the film industry.
Join us for this exciting opportunity to kickstart your career in the scenic and art departments for film and television - Apply now!
INSTRUCTORS:
Jaf Farkas is a New York based scenic designer and visual artist who has worked in film and television since 2004. As an art director, Jaf works intimately with scenic artists to fulfill the vision of production designers and directors. He has created for dozens of feature films, TV shows, and commercials over the years.
Nicole Montagnino is a Set Decorator who works in New York City and the Hudson Valley. She is a member of the SDSA and IATSE Local 52. Her recent credits include The Other Two Season 3, Law and Order Season 21, I Know This Much is True and Lost Girls.
Stockade Worksโ programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.
Stockade Works believes that film, media, and tech should be accessible for all people. If an accessibility offering such as American Sign Language Interpretation, live captioning, audio descriptions or a post event transcript would aid in your participation, please let us know.