Art Department FAQ

What is the difference between a production designer and an art director?

The terms are often used interchangeably, but they are two very different roles.

A Production Designer works closely with the director, client, or agency to interpret and oversee the comprehensive visual design of a project. For example: they might discuss set ideas with the director, discuss palettes and lighting with the DP, communicate a client’s wishes regarding key props, and provide guidance to various artists and adjacent departments.

An Art Director oversees the logistical support for the designer. For example, they might hire and schedule crew, oversee budgets, break down scripts, and direct various artists and teams within the art department.

What is a virtual art department, and how does it differ from a traditional art department?

A virtual art department differs from the usual team in that they are composed of different types of artists, utilize a front-loaded workflow, and optimize set and prop design for use in front of a volumetric or “volume” stage. For example, this can mean hiring CG artists and modelers to build out a virtual environment in Unreal Engine, preparing key props early in pre-pro for photogrammetry, and generally performing more construction, testing, and design upfront for a minimal strike and post process.

As a designer and art director, this flips the workflow on its head in many interesting ways — from understanding elevation and lighting limitations, to hiring different types of artists, and working with digital assets. It opens up many possibilities for the art dept world to be more environmentally friendly in its use of materials.

Can I hire you for other types of work?

Absolutely! I also work as a set designer, as a set decorator, as an assistant art director and many more roles (although I’ve had to retire from carrying couches around). I love working with new people and supporting other PDs by keeping their show running smoothly.