Décor designers, or set designers as they are also known, are artists who design the décor or sets for theatrical performances, television programmes, films and corporate launches. Usually a set has to be designed to meet certain specifications. When asked to create special historical or visual effects to support the script, they need to use their imagination and all their skills.
They develop, with the aid of a computer or by hand, sketches of several concepts which they then present to the producer of the play, film or television production. Research sometimes needs to be conducted to create a set that will interpret the story in a visual form and to establish the appropriate architectural elements. Changes often have to be made until the producer and designer are satisfied with the design or designs.
Décor designers normally have to work to specific deadlines and often confer with producers and other production staff such as props and costume designers, to coordinate style, colour combination and the general visual effect.
Thus, a décor designer interprets the story, drama or play and translates it into visual form, conducting research where necessary. Ideas are then transferred into practical working drawings. Approved designs are then finalized and dates confirmed as to when the décor needs to be completely finished. The décor is then built and painted.
Satisfying Aspects
- entertainment is a glamorous career
- every set is a new challenge
- it is highly satisfying to see the end-produc
Demanding aspects
- sometimes having to work long and irregular hours, or on holidays or over weekends
- working to deadlines
- possible rejection of designs
Requirements
- vivid imagination and practical
- eye for detail and sense of balance
- strong sense of proportion and colour
- a feel for form and space
- initiative and creative ability
- able to sketch and sensitive to beauty
- relate and communicate well with people
- able to work as part of a team
- conscientious and hardworking
- able to persevere and handle frustration
- able to work to deadlines and under pressure
School Subjects
National Senior Certificate meeting degree requirements for a degree course
National Senior Certificate meeting diploma requirements for a diploma course
Each institution will have its own minimum entry requirements.
Compulsory Subjects: None
Recommended Subjects: Visual Arts, History, Information Technology, Engineering and Graphic Design
Training
Degree: A four-year BA (Fine Arts) degree, offered at all universities except Medunsa, provides appropriate background training in Art, especially if subjects such as History of Art and Architecture are included.
Diploma: The N.Dip. Performing Arts (specializing in Theory and Practice: Décor) is offered at TUT and DUT. The duration of the course is 3 years. A fourth year will give the qualification of the B.Tech. Performing Arts Technology (specializing in Theory and Practice: Décor IV). Other courses are available at UJ, CPUT, DUT, TUT.
In-service training is offered at television studios and theatres
Employer
- Theatres
- Television studios
- Organisations and industries (exhibitions)
Contact
Registrar
CityVarsity Film & Television and Multimedia School
Tel: (0021) 423-3366
The Head
Department Entertainment Technology
Arts Faculty
Tshwane University of Technology
Private Bag X680
Pretoria, 0001