thumb|Set design model by Marcel Jambon for an 1895 Paris production of [[Giuseppe Verdi's Otello.]]
thumb|Set design for the [[New Zealand Opera's 2016 production of Mozart's Magic Flute]]thumb|Scenic design for The 2010 Family Series, by Glenn Davis
thumb|A simple red curtain set design for the [[Oresteia presented by Stairwell Theater, 2019]]
Scenic design, also known as stage design or set design, is the creation of scenery for theatrical productions including plays and musicals. The term can also be applied to film and television productions, where it may be referred to as production design. Scenic designers create sets and scenery to support the overall artistic goals of the production. Scenic design is an aspect of scenography, which includes theatrical set design as well as light and sound.
Modern scenic designers are increasingly taking on the role of co-creators in the artistic process, shaping not only the physical space of a production but also influencing its blocking, pacing, and tone. As Richard Foreman famously stated, scenic design is a way to "create the world through which you perceive things happening." These designers work closely with the director, playwright, and other creative members of the team to develop a visual concept that complements the narrative and emotional tone of the production. Notable scenic designers who have embraced this collaborative role include Robin Wagner, Eugene Lee, and Jim Clayburgh
History
The origins of scenic design may be found in the outdoor amphitheaters of ancient Greece, when acts were staged using basic props and scenery. Because of improvements in stage equipment and drawing perspectives throughout the Renaissance, more complex and realistic sets could be created for scenic design. Scenic design evolved in conjunction with technological and theatrical improvements over the 19th and 20th centuries. Drawing inspiration from European pioneers like Adolphe Appia and Edward Gordon Craig, American designers began moving away from the overly detailed naturalism of the 19th century. As digital and mechanized techniques have advanced, scenic artists now also incorporate technologies such as computer-generated imagery (CGI) and digital projection into their work. These precise drawings help the scenic designer effectively communicate with other production staff, especially the technical director, production manager, charge scenic artist, and prop master.
In Europe and Australia, many scenic designers are also responsible for costume design, lighting design and sound design. They are commonly referred to as theatre designers, scenographers, or production designers.
Scenic design often involves skills such as carpentry, architecture, textual analysis, and budgeting.
Many modern scenic designers use 3D CAD models to produce design drawings that used to be done by hand. CAD tools have revolutionized the way designers create technical drawings, allowing for precise, scalable plans that are easier to adjust and communicate to the entire production team.