FILM COURSE: DESIGNING WORLDS - A JOURNEY THROUGH THE ART AND HISTORY OF PRODUCTION DESIGN

PLAYGROUNDS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

Join this two-part masterclass and explore the core of production design as well as its pivotal role in visual storytelling. From the early days of cinema to contemporary filmmaking, this program highlights how production designers craft immersive worlds that captivate and enhance narratives. Through historical and modern examples, we’ll examine the evolution of this vital art form and its continued relevance in the cinematic experience. Suitable for film enthusiasts, students, and professionals alike, but accessible for a broad audience, with no prior knowledge required, the masterclass balances creative insights with practical perspectives.

Secure your tickets here!

The lectures can be attended independently, but also together.

 

Program Outline 

Tuesday, 18 March, 20.00 – 21.30

Part 1: Historical Foundations and Key Principles 

  • The origins of production design and its role in early cinema. 
  • How key films like Metropolis and Gone with the Wind shaped the discipline. 
  • Principles of visual storytelling: space, structure, and narrative design. 
  • Examples of collaboration between directors and production designers. 
  • Insights from historical film clips to illustrate foundational techniques. 

 

 

Thursday, 20 March, 20.00 – 21.30
Part 2: Modern Applications and Future Perspectives
 

  • The evolution of production design into the digital era. 
  • Case studies from contemporary films. 
  • Balancing creativity and practicality: budgets, locations, and logistics. 
  • Emerging trends in digital tools / AI. 

Twan Arts is a lecturer in Film History and Film Analysis with extensive expertise in exploring how visual storytelling shapes and reflects cinema’s evolution. He regularly hosts courses and lectures at film theaters and -festivals across the Netherlands.At Natlab Film Theater of Eindhoven he curates a monthly program called Game Changers, which examines films that have had a disruptive impact on film history, providing context and analysis before revisiting these groundbreaking works.

TICKETS:

Regular: € 16,5
Student: € 12