How to Paint a Back Stage Wall
- 1). Visualize an idea with a vivid image for your wall. What colors would match the personality of the characters? What about the setting? The storyline? Does it have any specific architecture? Take everything the script tells you, and more, into consideration when preparing to paint.
- 2). Research your theme. Learn the time frame of the play or movie you are painting. Use pictures, specific movie scenes and music to get ideas for your creation.
- 3). Be responsible while putting your backdrop together. This takes persistent communication throughout the process. The director will have a clear vision of the play, but you can also check with the production team and actors for any accommodations they may need. Be resourceful and flexible. Keep in mind that lighting, props and special effects can also affect your background.
- 4). Clean your wall thoroughly. Make sure you do not paint over stains, loose nails or other materials that may affect your image. Also keep in mind that the wall may or may not have grooves in between tiles, which is fine. If your wall is flat, this will not matter; if your wall has grooves, you will proceed to paint on top of them. This will not harm anything.
- 5). Spread a tarp on the stage against the wall of your mural, underneath your painting materials to avoid permanent staining. Start painting from the top of the stage wall and work downwards to the stage floor. Darker colors bring out more of a 3-D effect in staging if colors and textures are well-blended. This makes your scene more realistic.
- 6). Use wide, flat brushes for painting the scenery in the distance, like clouds or hills. Use lighter blues, greens and grays for these objects. Again, layering your colors together while painting can help bring a three-dimensional look to your piece.
- 7). Use the end of your paint brush and sponges for objects such as trees, grass, wood and other landscape details.
- 8). Use the cast to get perspective. Watch the actors play out scenes for a better overview of your scenery. At this point, you will not be able to go back and edit any painting you have done but if there is something left out, it can be added.
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