The Signwriter creates and designs lettering and signage as required, usually under the instruction of the production designer and/or graphics designer.
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Working Life
The Signwriter creates and designs lettering and signage as required, usually under the instruction of the production designer and/or graphics designer.
They must work with the production team to create lettering and finishes according to the needs of the production. For example, when the project is contemporary or set during a specific period.
During a specific period, they must use typography, layout, and proportion, and interpret plans and measurements.
Signwriters must use relevant industry software systems, as well as traditional techniques such as silk screen printing or calligraphy.
Works with
- Construction Coordinator
- Graphic Designer
- All of the Construction Team
Qualities - Signwriter Film & TV
Is this role right for me?
For this role, you need:
Skills, training, and techniques to draw and paint or replicate appropriate lettering signage to the scale and typefaces required.
The ability to draw lettering from scale drawings.
Good logic and reasoning in working to particular briefs and specifications and a sound knowledge of how different tools and materials achieve desired effects.
Strong knowledge of media techniques in working with graphic designer.
Great eye for layout, an artistic flair, and a good knowledge of art and design history.
Knowledge of period lettering signs such as Roman numeral serif and sans serif.
Ability to take direction, work well as part of a team, and collaborate with other departments as required.
Ability to work calmly and efficiently under pressure and to work around schedule changes as to the needs of a busy film/TV production.
Interests - Signwriter Film & TV
This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Realist
Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.
Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.
Creative
Creative people are drawn to careers and activities that enable them to take responsibility for the design, layout or sensory impact of something (visual, auditory etc). They may be atrracted to the traditional artistic pursuits such as painting, sculpture, singing, or music. Or they may show more interest in design activities, such as architecture, animation, or craft areas, such as pottery and ceramics.
Creative people use their personal understanding of people and the world they live in to guide their work. Creative people like to work in unstructured workplaces, enjoy taking risks and prefer a minimum of routine.
Entry / Progression - Signwriter Film & TV
Education Route: Design qualifications can be useful.
Career Path to Signwriter - Film & TV: There are no usual paths to becoming a signwriter. Often, they would work and be mentored by a sign writer on various productions. Years of experience working as a signwriter in other industries.
Career Path from Signwriter - Film & TV: Art Department Assistant, Assistant Art Director.
