Apprenticeship training course

Scenic artist (level 3)

Discuss the scenic art requirements with the designer or scenic manager to translate their vision into the reality of what the audience sees.

• Qualification level: 3 ; Equivalent to A level.
• Typical duration: 21 months
• Apprenticeship category: Creative and design
• Maximum funding: £19,000 ; Maximum amount government will fund ; for apprenticeship training.
• Also known as:
  • Scenic artist
  • Scenic construction worker
  • Scenic painter
  • Set decorator
  • Set painter
• Skills:
  Skills an apprentice will learn

  • Liaise with designers and production managers to create or adapt work in accordance with requirements.
  • Use drawing equipment including a scale rule, measuring stick, straight edge, stencil making, pounce making and projection.
  • Draw using methods such as plotting, gridding, freehand and figurative.
  • Use painting theory for example colour mixing, product use, wood-graining, marbling, sign writing, trompe l’oeil, spray techniques, painting on various materials, appliques and cut-cloths, faux finishes, peeling and cracked paint.
  • Use carving and sculptural techniques for example polycarving, scrimming.
  • Apply texture techniques for example different texture products, additives and adhesives, accurate replication of given building materials, rendering of natural and man-made surfaces, ageing and distressing.
  • Use industry practices including accurate industry terminology and safe working practices.
  • Interpret the design process including model boxes and scale.
  • Use tools and equipment for example hand tools, hoists and lifts.
  • Operate and use mobile access equipment.
  • Undertake work on different surfaces.
  • Undertake the hanging and stretching out of cloths and wallpaper.
  • Undertake repair and modification, and finish activities as required and in accordance with safe working and manufacturing practices.
  • Modify any completed works during production if alterations are required by the director or designer.
  • Demonstrate and share best practice with the team.
  • Use IT systems to facilitate administrative, communications and online requirements for example diaries, blogs, schedules, budgets, costings and progress reports.
  • Communicate with others including understanding and responding to instructions and briefings.
  • Develop drawings, paintings, colour samples etc. in accordance with a design concept.
  • Maintain safe working practices and efficient use of hand tools, machinery, materials and resources.

Full information on Scenic artist (level 3) is available from the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education.

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