Sr Art Director & Set Designer
About Me
For almost 20 years, I have been working in building and construction. At the same time I was getting my Bachelor's of Arts in English Literature and Photography, I was sweeping floors on site for a foreman before working my way up to laborer, and then to engineering for fire sprinklers. I kept realizing that I had more to offer, and eventually received my Master's in Architecture.
However, it wasn't until I started designing sets for the film industry and theme parks that I found my true calling. I love the complexity and variation that happens with each new project. Building immersive environments allows me to marry my love of research, character, narrative and architecture. It has allowed me to tell unimaginable stories to so many people. I excel at understanding the client needs and translating that into a world that is visual and accessible. I am at my best when I am trying to integrate all of the technical disciplines into a believable and build-able world.
WARNER BROS. WORLD
ABU DHABI
This has by far been my favorite project. I started in concept as a Set Designer and finished the project in production as the Sr. Art Director for the park. It was my responsibility to creatively direct the production of this million square foot park with 29 attractions, and oversee the entire art direction team and all of aspects of themed construction. The final product has received many awards and I am happy with the skills I was able to bring to the table.
THEMED ENTERTAINMENT
I have been happy to travel the world to work on multiple different types of projects for Themed Entertainment. Whether on a small museum exhibit, a children's active play space, or a large indoor theme park, it has allowed me to enhance the space using narrative and smart design principles.
FILM SET DESIGN
Working with the Production Designer, I am able to use my experience and knowledge of 3D modelling and CAD to bring their vision to life.
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN
Working with a licensed Architect, I am able to manage the CAD package and design clean, thoughtful spaces.
CV
Professional Experience
Warner Bros. Discovery
Creative Director, Global Themed Entertainment
April 2019 - present
My job at Warner Bros was to manage a multitude of different projects for Global Themed Entertainment, including projects for Harry Potter, DC, and Looney Tunes. I oversaw all aspects of creative direction and acted as the brand ambassador, ensuring that the guest experience was innovative and aligned with corporate goals. Creative oversight included management of theme parks, hotels, exhibits, mall activation, live shows, food and beverage, and media.
Creative Art Direction & Show Design
Thinkwell Group
2011 - 2019
Beginning work at Thinkwell as a Set Designer, I moved quickly to Production Design and Art Direction, culminating in my role as Sr. Art and Creative Director at Warner Bros. World, Abu Dhabi. My role at Thinkwell was to cultivate the overall look of a project from Concept to Design Development, including parkwide facades, attractions, graphics and master planning. I have been responsible for direct communication and in-field coordination with many multinational companies, including Warner Bros., Google, Universal Creative, MGM, and Nickelodeon. I acted as the Head of Department from 2014 to 2016 and was key in department budgeting, setting up packages, contract requirements, and staffing.
Film/TV Art Direction & Set Design
2008-2014
Lead set designer for Los Angeles commercial production companies such as MJZ and Smuggler. Clients included Old Spice, Budweiser, Chevy, Got Milk, and Geico
Art Director on short film “The Day the Music Died”, director Bruno Miotto
Architecture
2007-2012
Tim Joslin, AIA
Lead designer and package manager for high-end residential projects in Los Angeles and New York City
Altoon+Porter Architects, LLP, Los Angeles, CA (now known as STIR Architecture)
Designer for an international firm, primarily working on large-scale retail projects and multi-use hi-rise buildings.
Construction
2001-2009
Southland Fire Protection
Engineering and designing systems for residential projects, including plan check and management of materials and budgets for projects.
Lloyd Nelson Construction
Laborer and foreman for small residential and business rehabilitation.
For more information about my professional experience, please get in touch.
Get in Touch
