Lead Scenic Artist

F5 Theming & Design; Madison (WI); On-site; USD 55,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

F5 Theming & Design seeks a Lead Scenic Artist to oversee the planning, creation, and finishing of scenic elements for themed entertainment and commercial projects at our Madison, WI studio. You will interpret design concepts, mix colors, select materials, and produce high-quality artwork on a variety of surfaces.

You will coordinate with designers, fabricators and project managers, providing direction to artists and ensuring deadlines, safety standards and quality are met.

Qualifications

• Experience in scenic painting and finishing techniques including murals, faux finishes, texturing and aging.
• Ability to interpret design drawings and renderings and translate them into physical elements.
• Experience with multiple materials (paint systems, coatings, foam, wood, plastics) and related tools.
• Demonstrated leadership to guide and coordinate a team of artists in a production environment.
• Strong project organization, time management and meeting deadlines.
• Attention to detail, color accuracy and quality control throughout production.

Responsibilities

• Oversee planning, creation and finishing of scenic elements for themed entertainment and commercial projects.
• Interpret concepts and renderings, mix colors, select materials and techniques to produce high-quality work.
• Coordinate with designers, fabricators and project managers; provide direction to other artists.
• Maintain organized studio, troubleshoot technical challenges and contribute creative input to project outcomes.

Skills

Scenic painting

Team leadership

Render interpretation

Safety awareness

Education

Fine arts or scenic design training

Job description

Company Description F5 Theming & Design is a scenic art design and manufacturing company specializing in themed entertainment and commercial environments. The company partners with clients to transform spaces into immersive, visually compelling experiences that engage visitors and enhance brand presence. Its work ranges from custom scenic elements and murals to large-scale themed installations. With a focus on creativity, craftsmanship, and collaboration, F5 Theming & Design aims to dramatically alter the form, appearance, and character of each establishment. Team members are encouraged to bring artistic vision and technical skill to projects that deliver memorable, transformational environments.

Role Description The Lead Scenic Artist is a full-time, on-site role based in Madison, WI. This position oversees the planning, creation, and finishing of scenic elements, including painting, texturing, aging, and specialty finishes for themed entertainment and commercial projects. Day-to-day responsibilities include interpreting design concepts and renderings, mixing and matching colors, selecting appropriate materials and techniques, and producing high-quality scenic artwork on a variety of surfaces. The Lead Scenic Artist coordinates with designers, fabricators, and project managers, provides direction to other artists, and ensures work meets deadlines, safety standards, and quality expectations. The role also involves maintaining an organized studio environment, troubleshooting technical challenges, and contributing creative input to enhance overall project outcomes.

Qualifications

• Scenic painting and finishing skills, including murals, faux finishes, texturing, and aging techniques.
• Strong ability to interpret design drawings, renderings, and reference images and translate them into physical scenic elements.
• Experience working with a variety of materials (e.g., paint systems, coatings, foam, wood, plastics) and appropriate tools and equipment.
• Demonstrated leadership abilities to guide, mentor, and coordinate a team of artists and craftspeople in a production environment.
• Solid project organization skills, including time management, task prioritization, and the ability to meet tight deadlines.
• Attention to detail, color accuracy, and quality control in all stages of production.
• Ability to work safely in a shop setting, including lifting, standing for extended periods, and following safety protocols.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills with designers, fabricators, and project managers.
• Previous experience in themed entertainment, theatrical scenic art, or commercial theming preferred.
• Relevant education or training in fine arts, scenic design, or related fields, or equivalent professional experience.