Molly Mars
SCENIC DESIGNER, FABRICATOR, & PAINTER
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I’m an MFA Themed Experience student drawn to the hands-on process of amplifying and embellishing creative environments to tell stories.
I enjoy refining details that influence how a space is experienced and remembered. I thrive in collaborative, process-driven work where I can creatively problem-solve to bring design intent to fruition.
I am eager to continue developing my craft through creating immersive projects that bring magic to life!
Meet Molly!
My Role: Scenic Designer & Fabricator
Eurydice
By: Sarah Ruhl
“This design delves into capturing the feeling of memory. Using a childlike fascination revolving around nostalgia allows a universal audience to relate to the story.”
— Molly Mars
Texas Christian University - Fort Worth, TX
Research & Concept
This part of the design process is dedicated to coordinating with the director and creative team to discuss the script’s needs and conceptual ideas. Below are the research images that I compiled to communicate the intended emotions and shapes of the scenic elements in my design.
Rendering & Drafting
Once the design concept was set in stone, I created clear visuals for the creative team, actors, and fabricators. I began with rough sketches to work out any technical issues, then translated those into polished renders and architectural drafting packages.
This was the initial concept of the string house that needed to be constructed and disassembled during the show by an actor.
This sketch was used to dictate which emblem was to be attached to each side of the wooden blocks.
Above is my hand-drafted elevation plan given to the lighting designer to design the light plot.
Above is my hand-drafted ground plan given to the scenic studio to communicate the technical details necessary to build it.
Development
This is the most hands-on part of the process, as I worked closely with the scenic, prop, and paint departments to bring the design to life. At this time, I was also a scenic studio apprentice, so I was able to take part in the fabrication process of my own design.
I worked closely with the props department to design a custom umbrella to give the illusion of rain.
Attending rehearsals as a designer was pertinent to see how actors interacted with the set and make any necessary changes to best tell the story.
During the process I learned how to program and operate a CNC laser machine to create the emblems for the blocks.
This rendering was created for the paint department to communicate the floor treatment and where the chalk drawings needed to be painted in relation to the set.
I collaborated closely with the scenic charge to explore creative solutions to make paint look like sidewalk chalk.
Final Product
I appreciate you taking the time to get to know me and view my portfolio.
I hope to be in contact soon!