Art Department for Documentary

BlockReel; New York (NY); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity partnership

Job summary

BlockReel in Brooklyn seeks an experienced Senior Art Director to lead the visual aesthetic of an independent documentary series, beginning prep in late Oct 2026. You will translate the vision into practical sets and environments that feel authentic to underground subcultures.

The role requires a strong portfolio in non-fiction or stylized indie productions, hands-on set dressing and prop oversight, and the ability to source materials locally in NYC while meeting tight deadlines.

Qualifications

• Senior art director with strong portfolio in non-fiction or stylized indie productions.
• Proven ability to lead an art department and manage a small team.
• Experience sourcing materials locally in NYC and meeting tight schedules.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and execute set designs that support narrative.
• Oversee dressing and props to ensure cohesive look.
• Manage a small art team and coordinate with production.
• Ensure visuals enhance the story without overshadowing it.

Skills

Senior Art Director

Set design

Prop styling

Team management

Visual storytelling

Local sourcing NYC

Job description

We need an experienced Senior Art Director to lead the visual aesthetic for an independent documentary series shooting in Brooklyn, starting with prep work in the last week of October 2026. This isn't a talking-head doc, it's a dynamic, character-driven series exploring underground subcultures, requiring a keen eye for authenticity and creative visual storytelling. You'll be instrumental in translating our vision into compelling practical sets and environments. Key responsibilities include conceptualizing and executing set designs, overseeing dressing and props, managing a small art team, and ensuring all visual elements enhance the narrative without overshading it. We're looking for someone with a strong portfolio showcasing previous senior art department roles, especially in non-fiction or stylized indie productions. You should be familiar with sourcing materials locally in NYC and adept at working within tight schedules. We are a small production company and this will be an intense, rewarding several weeks of work. Compensation is an equity partnership, reflecting a deep commitment to the project's success. This is an excellent opportunity for a passionate individual to contribute significantly to an impactful series.

Budget Range

Equity partnership