set designer
Set designers develop a set concept for a performance and supervise the execution of it. Their work is based on research and artistic vision. Their design is influenced by and influences other designs and must be conform with these designs and the overall artistic vision. Therefore, the designers work closely with artistic directors, operators and the artistic team. During rehearsals and performance they coach the operators to obtain optimal timing and manipulation. Set designers develop sketches, design drawings, models, plans or other documentation to support the workshop and performance crew. They may also design exhibition stands for fairs and other events.
Also called: exibition designer, scenic designer, scenery artist, theater designer, scenic designer & artist, scenic artist & designer, scenic artist and designer, scene designer
- 44
- essential skills
- 34
- optional skills
- 8
- related roles
- 3432
- ISCO-08 group
Where you can go from here
8 rolesOccupations sharing the most essential skills with this one. The number is a count, not an opinion.
- costume designerWhat changes?34 skills in common
- performance lighting designerWhat changes?34 skills in common
- pyrotechnic designer34 skills in common
- sound designerWhat changes?34 skills in common
- puppet designer33 skills in common
- make-up and hair designer32 skills in common
- performance flying director28 skills in common
- performance video designer23 skills in common
Essential skills
44- adapt existing designs to changed circumstances
- adapt to artists' creative demands
- analyse a script
- analyse music score
- analyse the artistic concept based on stage actions
- analyse the scenography
- attend rehearsals
- coach staff for running the performance
- communicate during show
- conduct costume research
- contextualise artistic work
- create set models
- define artistic approach
- define prop materials
- define set materials
- design props
- develop design concept
- develop design ideas cooperatively
- develop the look of a production
- draw prop sketches
- draw stage layouts
- gather reference materials for artwork
- keep up with trends
- meet deadlines
- model sets
- monitor developments in technology used for design
- monitor sociological trends
- perform quality control of design during a run
- present artistic design proposals
- prevent fire in a performance environment
- propose improvements to artistic production
- research new ideas
- safeguard artistic quality of performance
- sketch set images
- understand artistic concepts
- update design results during rehearsals
- use communication equipment
- use specialised design software
- use technical documentation
- verify feasibility
- work ergonomically
- work safely with chemicals
- work safely with mobile electrical systems under supervision
- work with respect for own safety
Optional skills
34- adapt artistic plan to location
- adapt props
- analyse the need for technical resources
- assemble the rehearsal set
- build props
- calculate design costs
- copyright legislation
- define prop building methods
- define set building methods
- define set painting methods
- develop professional network
- document your own practice
- draw up artistic production
- draw up stage layouts digitally
- ensure visual quality of the set
- follow safety procedures when working at heights
- keep personal administration
- labour legislation
- lead a team
- make set construction drawings
- manage personal professional development
- mark the stage area
- organise resources for artistic production
- paint sets
- prevent technical problems with scenic elements
- prevent technical problems with stage equipment
- prospect new customers
- provide technical documentation
- purchase props
- set up equipment in a timely manner
- translate artistic concepts to technical designs
- update budget
- use personal protection equipment
- work safely with machines
No account needed to start
How close are you to being a set designer?
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