Diversity in Production Design: Progress and Recognition

In 2020, only 27.5% of production designers in the Art Directors Guild were women. However, according to guild president Dina Lipton, this number has increased significantly over the last five years. "It's exciting to see more women nominated each year," says Lipton. "We also have many young people graduating with degrees in production design, and most of them are women."

For the first time, the guild's executive board is entirely female. This year's Academy Awards for production design feature two female nominees: Suzie Davies for "Conclave" and Judy Becker for "The Brutalist."

Art Directors Guild Award Nominees and Their Visions

As the Art Directors Guild prepares to award its top prizes on February 15, Lipton highlights the artistry and vision behind five nominees who are also recognized by the Oscars.

* "The Brutalist" (Judy Becker)

Becker, tasked with creating a film about an architect with limited funds, ingeniously used a scale model of the Institute to seamlessly transport viewers into a vast space. Her use of locations in Budapest effectively captured the atmosphere of 1950s Philadelphia. The library set is a particularly impressive achievement.

* "Conclave" (Suzie Davies)

Despite being categorized as contemporary, "Conclave" conveys a sense of historical sanctity. Davies' design and cinematography feature endless hallways and a striking use of red, enhancing the film's atmosphere. Her construction of the Sistine Chapel in just 10 weeks is a testament to her exceptional skills.

* "Dune: Part Two" (Patrice Vermette)

This sequel features a monumental production design, with twice as many sets as its predecessor. The Cave of Birds and War Room sets are particularly noteworthy for their grandeur and attention to detail.

* "Nosferatu" (Craig Lathrop)

Lathrop's design for this film is exceptionally realistic and unsettling. Every detail is meticulously crafted, from the sagging buildings to the decaying castle and monastery. The low-light design and vibrant wall colors create a stunningly atmospheric environment.

* "Wicked" (Nathan Crowley)

Dubbed "the year of libraries," "Wicked" features an iconic setting that combines architectural styles from different parts of the world to create the magical world of Oz. The practical effects and seamless integration of elements make Crowley's design a work of art.