Course Title: INTDSN 37, Set Design and Art Direction for Film and TV
Units: 3
Date Submitted: Feb., 1996
Updated: April, 2007
IGETC Area:
CSU GE Area:
Transfer:

1. Catalog Description:

   Prerequisite: None

   This lecture course examines the Motion Picture Industry as it relates to the Art Department of Film and TV, specifically focusing on the job of the Production Designer, Art Director, Set Decorator, and Set Designer. The course emphasizes personal, educational, and professional qualifications required for entry into the Motion Picture Industry as a professional Production Designer, Art Director, Set Decorator, and Set Designer.

2. Required Text and References:
   • Pecktal, Lynn. Designing and Painting for the Theatre. New York: Holt, Rinehart and Winston, Latest Edition. (ISBN: 0-03-011901-4)
   • Parker, Wilford Oren. Scene Design and Stage Lighting. New York: Holt, Rinehart and Winston, 7th ed., Latest Edition. (ISBN: 0-03-089446-8)
   • St. John Marner, Terence. Film Design. New York, A. S. Barnes & Co., Latest Edition. (ISBN 0-498-01326-X)
   • Hambly, John The Art of Hollywood. London, Thames Television, Ltd., Latest Edition.
   • The Hollywood Reporter Trade Publication
   • Variety Trade Publication
   • Location Magazine
3. Course Objectives:

   Upon completion of the course, students will be able to:

   1. Identify education, skills and personal qualifications for entry into the Motion Picture Production Design Profession.
   2. Differentiate between each category of job title related to the Motion Picture Professional Art Department: Production Designer, Art Director, Set Decorator, and Set Designer.
   3. Examine each area of Motion Picture Production as it relates to Feature Film, Television, Commercials, Music Videos and Corporate Videos.
   4. Identify all of the different Professionals involved in a complete Production and describe what each Professional does in the business.
   5. Interview Production Design Professionals in the industry, obtain in-depth knowledge of the Profession and share interview knowledge with other class members in written and oral reports.
   6. Identify the Professional Unions associated with this profession and the pros and cons of Union Vs Non-Union.
   7. Examine and assess contracts and oral agreements associated with Freelance Production Design, Art Direction, Set Decoration, and Set Design.
   8. Describe the career of a Freelance Artist and demonstrate knowledge of how to get started in the freelance business.
   9. Identify professional and educational goals and specific strategies for achieving those goals.
4. Student Learning Outcome(s):

   The student will:

   1. Students will prepare a statement of qualifications, resume, and written contract associated with a Freelance Production Design, Art Direction, Set Decoration, or Set Design job proposal.
   2. Students will produce a written budget for a theoretical Freelance Production Design, Art Direction, Set Decoration, or Set Design job.
5. Methods of Presentation:
   

   Illustrated lecture/discussion; Visual presentations, slides, videos, and materials; Guest Speakers and Field Trips

6. Course Content:
   

   Percentage of Term / Topic

       
   • 20%   Introduction to the Profession
   • 20%  Research, Develop, and Presentation of a Project
   • 20%   Budgeting a Job
   • 20%   Trade Resources
   • 20%   Self Promoting
   • 100% Total
7. Methods of Evaluation:
   

   (Actual point distribution will vary from instructor to instructor but approximate values are shown.)

   Topic / Percentage

   • Examinations  50%
   • Student Project and Presentation  40%
   • Student Participation  10%
   • Grades are determined on a percentage basis:
   • Grading:
   • A = 91% to 100%
   • B = 81% to 90%
   • C = 71% to 80%
   • D = 61% to 70%
   • F = Below 60%