Courses in architecture. As an art director you’ll be responsible for designing sets, so you want to develop an understanding of construction, building, and technical drawing. Courses in interior design. Part of the set design you’ll do as an art director includes interior design, so you want to learn how to use props and decor to create a visually appealing aesthetic. Courses in theatre. Understanding how sets and props factor into a performance will help you down the road when you’re responsible for creating large-scale sets that directors and actors have to work with.
If you liked a particular set design or artistic element of a film, look up the art director behind it and study their career.
Volunteer for a local production or film company to gain experience and work on your personal skills. Enroll in financial literacy courses to learn about money and budgeting.
Apply to be an art department assistant. As an art department assistant, you’d be working in a department managed by an art director, so it’s a great opportunity to build practical experience and get a look at what your career might be like some day. [5] X Research source Apply for a construction job with a local production or film company. A big part of being an art director is designing and building sets, so understanding how construction works will look great on your resume. [6] X Research source Apply for a studio arts job. Having practical drawing, painting, or sculpting experience will help you get your foot in the door at an art department for a film. [7] X Research source
Have both an online portfolio and a physical portfolio to show prospective employers. Search online for free portfolio websites where you can upload and display your work. [10] X Research source
Some art director’s unions have a competitive application process. Before applying, make sure your portfolio is updated and full of your best work. [12] X Research source
For example, if you know a production designer is assembling a team for a new project, and you worked as the assistant art director on their last production, you could reach out and express your interest in working as the art director on their new film.
