WHAT DOES A LEAD PAINTER DO? (In the Entertainment industry. What Does A Lead Painter Do?)

Variety of Black Oil Paints / Photo Credit: Art Related Blog

WHAT DOES A LEAD PAINTER DO? (In the Entertainment industry. What Does A Lead Painter Do?)

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What Does A Lead Painter Do?

Hired during pre-production by the paint coordinator or paint foreman on a film or television set, the lead painter is a senior member of the crew who shall take on the greatest responsibility for mentoring the staff at large and for setting the example for artistic quality.

Lead Painter are usually briefed by the Production Designer and/or the Chargehand Painter to produce one or several scenic works for films.

These could be anything from cloud backdrops or the backdrop of a city such as New York or London, which is to be viewed out of a set window. They also paint any murals or paintings required and touch-up or finish work carried out by the painting team. They may also paint complex prop pieces.

They are responsible for scheduling their own work, buying in the necessary supplies, and translating the Production Designer's vision into reality.

The Lead Painter must ensure that their work is carried out to the agreed standards and deadlines. They assist at the load in (putting in place), and strike (taking down), of all their work.

They must follow strict health and safety guidelines, carry out their tasks in a safe work environment, and clean up and dispose of any waste in their work area.

Duties

The lead painter works under the supervision of the paint foreman and paint coordinator; this person should be capable of taking on the duties of the foreman in his or her absence and able to perform those tasks as delegated by the same. His or her primary responsibilities include painting set pieces, props, backdrops, cutouts, and permanent structures. In the event that a key scenic artist is not employed on the production, this person may also be charged with applying faux treatments to scenery, such as wood grain, aging, or breakdown. Typically, the lead painter is given the most complicated or intricate assignments that require the most skill and attention to detail. He or she may benefit from the help of an assistant who will perform preparation work, like sanding, filling, priming, and undercoating. Common jobs associated with the lead painter’s duties are spray painting, plastering, varnishing, and the application of materials like faux cement. On a large-scale production, the lead painter may be given the responsibility for supervising a small crew of painters in the completion of assigned projects. At all times, this person will adhere to established safety protocols and enforce department policies on behalf of department heads.

Skills & Education

A college degree in film and television production with an emphasis on scenic design is recommended, though majors in fine art or theatrical design are applicable to this career. The lead artist should display significant artistic talent, accompanied by an education in traditional drawing, painting, sculpture, and art history. He or she should be familiar with the common techniques of scenic painting and be familiar with the proper use of industry standard materials. Additionally, the lead painter must understand the procedures for appropriate storage and disposal of hazardous substances in the work location. The individual in the position must be willing to mentor junior painters and provide leadership within the department.

What to Expect

As a veteran of the paint department, the lead painter should have extensive professional experience, including work as a junior-level scenic painter, key scenic artist, and sign painter. Theatrical credits as a scenic charge artist or scenic artist are also applicable to a career in film and television production. Freelancers may work for a day rate, weekly salary, or hourly rate depending on the specific contract. Artists who are employed full-time with a scenic shop typically receive an hourly rate. Individuals within this craft are eligible for membership in IATSE, the union that represents artists and technicians within the entertainment industry. Union rates will vary.

Sources, References & Credits: Google, Wikipedia, Wikihow, WikiBooks, Pinterest, IMDB, Linked In, Indie Wire, Film Making Stuff, Hiive, Film Daily, New York Film Academy, The Balance, The Numbers, Film Maker, TV Guide Magazine, Media Match, Quora, Creative Skill Set, Investopedia, Variety, No Film School, Daily Variety, The Film Agency, Best Sample Resume, How Stuff Works, Career Trend, Producer's Code of Credits, Truity, Production Hub, Producers Guild of America, Film Connection, Variety, Wolf Crow, Get In Media, Production Beast, Sony Pictures,

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Variety of Black Oil Paints / Photo Credit: Art Related Blog