#14: Marcus Levers-George, Assistant Art Director - Drawing Skills, Hustle, and Work in the Art Department

Filmmaking Framed

Are you passionate about the art department in film and TV? Join us on this episode of Filmmaking Framed, where we chat with Marcus Levers-George, an Assistant Art Director with a wealth of experience in high-end productions.

Marcus shares insights on overseeing sets and locations, the collaborative process with the art director, and the importance of creating detailed plans early in pre-production. From concept artists to construction managers, Marcus discusses the vital interactions within the art department and beyond, highlighting how a well-coordinated team can make or break a production.

Whether you're aspiring to join a big-budget film or a smaller indie project, this episode is packed with valuable advice on navigating different budget landscapes, the significance of networking, and the balance between hand drawing and digital tools. Marcus also recounts his journey into the industry, emphasising practical experience, the importance of persistence, and the benefits of a strong professional network.

Don’t miss this chance to get a backstage pass into the art department and hear from someone who's worked on projects like "Star Wars: Rogue One". Tune in for a masterclass in film set creation and management, and gain the confidence to pursue your dreams in the art department!

Key Lessons

• Persistence and initiative are key to success in the film industry. Cold calling and emailing for work opportunities, following up on leads, and being tenacious are crucial. Marcus's motto: "If you don't ask, you won't get."

• Aspiring art department professionals should constantly draw and sketch, learning technical drawing by hand before digital methods. This provides a strong foundation and understanding of key principles.

• Adapting to Different Roles and Responsibilities: Marcus emphasizes the need for adaptability within the art department. It's crucial to be ready for responsibilities when offered and to remain humble with routine tasks. This flexibility aids in managing varying job roles and understanding the dynamics of both high and low-budget productions.

Resources

Software:

• Vectorworks: Used for CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and technical drawings

https://www.vectorworks.net/en-GB

• Rhino 3D: Used for 3D modeling, especially when extracting technical information for drawings

https://www.rhino3d.com/

• Blender: A mesh-based modeling program used for looser, conceptual work

https://www.blender.org/

Facebook Groups

• Art Department UK:

/ artdepartmentuk

• Art Dept Crew UK - Jobs Noticeboard:

/ artdeptcrew.uk.eire

Websites

• Filmbase: A website for finding jobs in the art department, set decoration, and prop departments. It charges a yearly fee (around £20-35) for members to set up a profile and receive job adverts - https://www.filmbase.uk/Join-us-Art

Training Programmes

• ScreenSkills Trainee Finder: A program that provides training and paid placements for trainees in various departments, including the art department - https://www.screenskills.com/training...

Interested in working with Marcus? Contact him via his Instagram or email

[e-mail]

Filmmaking Framed is proudly supported by Centroid Motion Capture, a leader in providing state-of-the-art motion capture technology to the entertainment industry.