Scenic Art Techniques...resources?

[JustinTech]

Hello,
I was wondering what might be a good online resource for scenic techniques. A comprehensive (if possible) list of used mediums and patterns/textures.

I am doing an independent educational project for myself, to help myself grow in the scenic art spectrum of the shop. And I was wishing to construct a "sampler" of sorts after practicing these techniques. Whether it be different types of wood, stone, paint patterns, sky/nature looks...Whether it just be pics, or technique guides and tips...

Thanks for any help,
Justin

 

[nealsam]

Justin,

This website might be of use to you: Theatrecrafts - Entertainment Technology Resources - Scenic

There are a number of links to various websites as well as a collection of books that you might consider buying. I think theatrecrafts is a great website, they cover all aspects of technical theatre, and have plenty of resources for the technician!

 

[derekleffew]

I don't know of online resources, but the definitive word on scene painting is Lynn Pecktal's book Designing and Painting for the Theatre, Holt, Rinehart and Winston, 1975. Every (aspiring) scenic artist should have a copy.

 

[BLynch]

Hi Justin,

I know you asked about online resources, our required text for scenic painting intro and advanced was Susan Crabtree's book, "Scenic Art for the Theatre, Second Edition: History, Tools, and Techniques." Our instructor pulled a few of her projects out of there. It was a great resource, and lots of techniques were explained step by step.
The price on Amazon is pretty reasonable:
Amazon.com: Scenic Art for the Theatre, Second Edition: History, Tools, and Techniques (9780240804620): Peter Beudert, Susan Crabtree: Books

All of the Scenic artists I've ever worked with also swear by the, "Surfaces" book for research. It has thousands of pictures of exactly what it says; surfaces of rocks, wood, paint peeling, roads, etc. It's a bit pricyer, but if you're going to be pursuing scenic painting seriously, it's a great way to talk to designer.
Amazon.com: Surfaces : Visual Research for Artists, Architects, and Designers (MacIntosh compatible) (9780393730074): Judy A. Juracek: Books

 

[JustinTech]

Thank you much, I will definitely make an advance to acquire the books mentioned (I have lately been expanding my tech-theatre library). I'm getting about two-three books a semester when I can afford it. And I will check out the site too.

 

[sk8rsdad]

Rosco has some technotes on the use of their scenic products here.

 

[TheatrePros]

You should also check out the "Backstage Handbook" The "Illustrated Theatre Production Guide" as well as the Painter's Journal

 

[erosing]

Hi Justin,

I know you asked about online resources, our required text for scenic painting intro and advanced was Susan Crabtree's book, "Scenic Art for the Theatre, Second Edition: History, Tools, and Techniques." Our instructor pulled a few of her projects out of there. It was a great resource, and lots of techniques were explained step by step.
The price on Amazon is pretty reasonable:
Amazon.com: Scenic Art for the Theatre, Second Edition: History, Tools, and Techniques (9780240804620): Peter Beudert, Susan Crabtree: Books

I will second Scenic Art for the Theatre. It is a great resource, lots of detailed pictures and illustrations.

If you really want to geek out on painting, The Painter's Handbook, is something I go to from time to time when I can't find what I'm looking for in my theatre specific books.