The Painted Stage

Film director, Mathias Poledna won the distinction of representing his country for the 55th, 2013 Venice Biennale. His film, Imitation of Life, can be seen at the Austrian pavilion and the exhibition runs from June 1- November 24.

Mathias worked with Duck Studios in Los Angeles to produce the film. Much of the director’s work pays tribute to 1930’s films, and in keeping with his personal vision, requested that a number of traditional Disney artists come together and make an animated film reminiscent of, Snow White, Bambi, and Pinocchio. In order to achieve that goal, it was important the background art be done in like manner. After a number of test-runs the studio conducted a more extensive search for a background artist skilled in watercolors. I had the good fortune to land the opportunity. Once there I recommended two phenomenal painters to see the project through: Xiangyuan Jie and Kevin Turcotte. We completed the work in record time.

Following are  a couple of my background production examples used in the film as well as digital keys designed to establish mood. Imitation of Life puts forth the existential question of why we are here, in a historical context of a culture involved in war and economic depression.

Links:

http://moussemagazine.it/55vb-austrian-pavilion/

http://labiennalevenezia.at/en/exhibition/

http://ourgodisspeed.blogspot.com/2013/06/secondary-action.html#more