Consuelo Okdie from Tampa Bay, Fla., writes:
“I’m hoping that you or one of your readers will be able to tell me how to get my artwork used as set decoration for TV or films.
“My work is unique in medium and application as I am one of a very few artists using polymer clay to create illustrations & paintings. Any information you may be able to give me will be greatly appreciated.”
The Publicity Hound says:
First, you need to be willing to do the research necessary to pitch set designers, costume coordinators, production coordinators, prop masters and product placement decision-makers for specific movies and TV shows. I hosted a teleseminar with Amy Bates Stumpf two years ago on How to Get Your Consumer Product onto the Sets of Movies and TV Shows.
A few quick pointers from that training session:
- The Hollywood Reporter and Daily Variety are magazines that report on upcoming production schedules. That’s a good place to start.
- If you’re pitching specific TV shows, be sure watch the show first. In your pitch, explain why you think your product or artwork is a good tie-in.
- Don’t send unsolicited products.
- Pitch early. Getting in on the ground floor of a TV show or movie or you might miss your opportunity.
About Joan
The Publicity Hound
Research first: most states and some larger cities around the nation have on-line film production guides which list crew members. You want to really focus on the Art Department — particularly designers, set dressers, decorators as well as local production companies and still photographers. These are the decision makers who make determine the look of the production, based on the input they receive from the director or in the case of production companies and still photographers from the client.
Open a dialog first and ask them how they make their decisions about design elements and let them know about your work, especially if you can create works to meet specific requirements. Cold pitches don’t work too well so don’t send your info without receiving interest first.
Most productions lease art rather than buy it, which leaves you free to realize a sale (and at an increased price) of those same works at a later date, especially if the art is prominently seen in a successful show, commercial or advertising photo. It can also open other doors for you including gallery representation.
At http://www.wardrobesupplies.com, under Backstage Stuff, are source books for theatre and film, in particular, one called Debbie’s Book. Google “scenic design” in Los Angeles. Be aware, if you should get something placed, you need to sell it to them, never lend, it won’t come back the same. Good luck!
Thank you Marilynn. This is exsctly what I was looking for – concrete advice & a definite starting place. Will order the book asap, it looks like just what I need.
The business out in Hollywood is a little rough right now for artists… as it is for everyone. However, I ‘was’ represented by an agent specifically representing my photography for film and TV. The agency recently closed and I am back to square one finding new representation…
Some of the gallery’s out there are places that set decorators will visit.