Scenic artists, painters and set making staff apply the skills and knowledge outlined in this unit. Generally they work as members of set construction crews under the supervision of a workshop manager.

They are responsible for painting a range of visual effects such as specific textures and trompe l'oeil. They require a good understanding of scenic art processes, as well as an appreciation of artistic criteria.

This unit has linkages to a range of other scenic art units and combined assessment and/or training with those units may be appropriate.

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Assess the need for the creation of special effects

1.1. Liaise with relevant colleagues to confirm the need for special effects scenic art

1.2. Read and correctly interpret production schedules, specifications, lists and scale drawings when available

1.3. Assess the need for the use of various special effects based on review of requirements and in consultation with relevant colleagues

1.4. Correctly identify any budgetary or other constraints

2. Test techniques to create special effects

2.1. Identify possible approaches to achieve the effect required and establish criteria for the selection of the final approach

2.2. Conduct appropriate research on different approaches and techniques

2.3. Select appropriate tools and equipment for the testing of approaches and techniques

2.4. Test and experiment with a range of techniques and materials which might achieve the effect

2.5. Evaluate testing processes against selection criteria and select the preferred approach based on production requirements

2.6. Communicate and consult with relevant production personnel on special effects options

2.7. Accurately document the selected process, including records of required materials and equipment

3. Produce special effects scenic art

3.1. Select correct tools, equipment and materials in accordance with size/scale requirements

3.2. Calculate correct quantities of materials, avoiding wastage where possible

3.3. Use the selected techniques to produce scenic art

Required skills

communication skills required to liaise with other production personnel on scenic art requirements

literacy skills sufficient to interpret production documentation and conduct research into special effects

numeracy skills sufficient to calculate quantities

Required knowledge

broad knowledge of the range of special effects which can be achieved in scenic art

techniques for the achievement of different types of special effect, including relevant tools, materials and equipment

safety and environmental issues and legislation associated with materials and equipment used to create effects

The Evidence Guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

The following evidence is critical to the judgement of competence in this unit:

knowledge of a range of techniques which can be used to create different effects

ability to apply techniques to achieve the desired special effect.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

The assessment context must provide for:

practical demonstration of skills through the production of scenic art which requires the achievement of a special effect

interaction with others to reflect the collaborative nature of the process.

Method of assessment

Assessment may incorporate a range of methods to assess performance and the application of essential underpinning knowledge, and might include:

direct observation of the candidate using techniques to achieve special effects

evaluation of scenic art pieces created by the candidate

oral or written questioning to assess knowledge of techniques, materials and equipment

review of portfolios of evidence and third party workplace reports of on-the-job performance by the candidate.

Guidance information for assessment

Assessment of this unit requires access to:

painting materials, tools and equipment commonly used to create special effects for scenic art

a workspace in which scenic art can be produced.

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Special effects may include:

particular textures

trompe l'oeil

Relevant colleagues may include:

designers

other scenic artists

stage carpenters

technicians

Appropriate research sources may include:

historical data

Internet

previous productions

references and texts

work of other artists

Scenic art equipment may include:

brushes

charcoal sticks

conversion tables

cutting boards and tables

dyeing facilities

glue guns

graining combs

hammers

hopper gun

measuring tapes

rollers

scissors and cutters

sponges

spray guns

stamps

tacks

tools, e.g. wire cutters, hammers, pliers

Scenic art may include:

back drops

cycloramas

drops

flats

flooring and floor cladding

flown pieces

large props, e.g.: furniture

rakes

rostra

scaffolding

soft drapes

stairs

treads

Unit sector

Visual communication - scenic art

This unit contains employability skills.