Senior Art Director (Pilot) - Detroit

BlockReel; Detroit (MI); On-site; USD 91,000 - 137,000; Part time

Job summary

BlockReel seeks a Senior Art Director to lead the visual creation for a sci-fi pilot set in a near-future Detroit. The role requires directing sets, props, and overall aesthetic while managing a small art department and collaborating closely with the Director and DP to translate the script into tangible visuals.

The ideal candidate has extensive narrative project experience, a strong reel, and proven budgeting/scheduling skills to maintain project constraints and timelines.

Qualifications

• Senior art director experience on narrative projects required.
• Strong portfolio demonstrating visual vision and execution.
• Ability to lead a small art department and collaborate with director and DP.
• Proficiency in budgeting and scheduling art department needs.

Responsibilities

• Design and oversee sets, props, and visual aesthetic for the pilot.
• Manage a small art department team and workflow.
• Collaborate with Director and DP to realize the script visually.
• Ensure production stays within budget constraints.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Scheduling

Art direction

Story visuals

Job description

An independent production is looking for a Senior Art Director to join our team for an exciting sci‑fi pilot. This project is a visually rich, character-driven drama set in a near-future Detroit, blending gritty realism with subtle speculative elements. We need someone who can lead the visual creation of our world with an eye for detail and practical solutions. We're a tight-knit crew, and we're looking for someone who can hit the ground running and contribute significantly to our vision. Key responsibilities include designing and overseeing sets, props, and overall visual aesthetic, managing a small art department team, and working closely with the Director and DP to bring the script to life. You should have extensive experience as an Art Director, particularly on narrative projects, and a strong portfolio demonstrating your creative vision and execution skills. You'll need to be proficient in budgeting and scheduling art department needs. Experience with independent productions and working within budget constraints is a plus. This is a senior-level position. Shoot dates are approximately the first two weeks of November 2026, with prep starting around the last week of September 2026. We anticipate about 6-7 weeks of work total. Hours will be typical film production hours. Compensation is $2000-3000/week, commensurate with experience. A strong reel or portfolio showcasing your previous work is essential. We'll provide necessary equipment and materials for the art department. Located in Detroit, MI.

Budget Range

$2000-3000/week