Who is a costume designer and what does he do?
A costume designer is one of the most sought-after professions in the modern world. This specialist works hard and painstakingly to create any image of the heroes. Undoubtedly, a costume designer lives a "little life" every time, preparing for the next performance or shooting a movie.
Peculiarities
The artistic activity itself dates back to the Stone Age. The first images were painted on stones and rocks. Nowadays, this profession has a broader and more multifaceted concept. A costume designer is a professional who has knowledge in modeling stage clothing items. The range of his tasks includes the creation of a visual image and interaction with dressers.... This specialist builds a number of details, which ultimately reflects the essence of a particular character. The costume designer is an integral part of the creative team, which includes the director, costume designer, stage director and make-up artist.
Also, the costume designer builds a trusting relationship with the actor on whose image he begins to work.
Responsibilities
First of all, this specialist studies the script. This will help to assess the atmosphere of the play, the movie as a whole, to understand the relationship between the characters, and also to find out what are their differences or similarities. After the specialist has decided on the key points, he begins to study the features of the era, which is reflected in the script (items of clothing, materials, everyday life). Followed by creation of a costume plot. It includes sketches, images and photographs, which are coordinated with the director and the crew.
Later, the costume designer begins searching for the required materials and props.In some cases, ready-made suits are purchased. When it comes to creating clothes from scratch, the artist directs the sewing process, and then controls the fitting of the products by the actors.... In case of inconsistency with the image, the costume is altered. In addition, the costume designer is present at the final rehearsals and filming. The specialist must understand how accurately he was able to convey the atmosphere of a particular era. Also, the behavior of the actors on stage helps the costume designer determine his personal level of professionalism.
Knowledge and skills
A stage costume designer must have the following skills:
- be able to draw;
- master the sewing business and distinguish between styles in clothes;
- understand the process of creating costumes;
- be interested in contemporary fashion;
- know the properties of fabrics and have the skill of working with processing means (artistic);
- have perseverance and craving for painstaking activity.
Besides, a cultural worker must have an expanded horizons, be interested in various areas in art and music... Undoubtedly, the costume designer is a creative and multifaceted person who is constantly looking for different sources of inspiration.
It is also noteworthy that this specialist does not sit still, but is constantly in the thick of things. Namely, he visits theaters, museums and concerts. It is also important for a specialist to find time for self-development.
Education
You can get the specialty "Costume Designer" in Russia and abroad.
As for Russian applicants, they should pay attention to the following educational institutions.
- VGIK... This specialty is received at the Faculty of Arts, it is called "Film and TV costume designer."
- Moscow Art Theater... We are talking about the faculty, where they receive the specialty "Costume designer-technologist". Classes are conducted according to the author's programs and individual plans. The priority is practical training.
- RGISI (Russian State Institute of Performing Arts). Training takes place at the production faculty. It is the oldest educational institution with a rich history. Its graduates are specialists of the highest level in the field of culture.
Workplace
The profession of costume designer is widely in demand in film studios, theaters and television. A specialist can be either a freelance employee or be on the staff.
- Freelancer... He is hired to work on a specific project (theater, opera or dance performance). After completing the training, a freelance artist may stop working or be involved in other projects.
- Staff member... The specialist is assigned to a specific theater or studio. It is always in its place, even if the work on the next project is completed. The staff artist is not allowed to collaborate with other organizations. His task is to immerse himself as much as possible in the “life” of a particular theater or film studio.
- Teacher... We are talking about highly qualified specialists who conduct training courses and lecture at universities. Art teachers can be on-staff or freelance.
