thumb|A scenic painter at work at the [[Semperoper in Dresden, Germany]]
Theatrical scenic painting is a discipline within theatrical production that includes creating scenery or backdrops by adding textures and depth. It encompasses a range of techniques, including landscape painting, figurative painting, trompe-l'œil, and faux finishing. Scenic painters work with a range of media such as acrylic, oil, and tempera paint. In addition, Three-dimensional skills such as sculpting, plastering and gilding may be applied to achieve specific effects. Paint composition knowledge is often necessary when selecting appropriate materials during painting.
alt=containers and trays of coloured paint, an black floor, paint brushes, a splash of water, and some scenic elements around the edge of the floor|thumb|Preparation for painting the stage floor at [[Circa Theatre for the pantomime Puss in Boot]]A scenic painter is responsible for replicating an image to a larger scale from a designer's maquette. This process uses reference materials such as photographs, printouts, and original research. Paint and style samples may also be provided to guide the work. While scenic painters usually execute the designs under the direction of a scenic or theatre designer, in some cases designers carry out their own scenic painting. Custom tools are often created to achieve specific visual effects.
History
The origin of scenic painting traces back to the Italian Renaissance, when Leon Battista Alberti studied and documented aspects from Ancient Greece stage painting, associated with the time of Aeschylus. During and after the Renaissance, the ability to draw in linear perspective became a fundamental skill for scenic painters. It allowed them to create realistic spatial illusions.
In the late 19th century, scenic artists gained a reputation for producing detailed and expressive backdrops. This became a prominent visual feature for theatrical productions. Productions often included backdrops with real-world environments such as streets and landscapes because of the theatrical movement toward realism. Audiences expected scenery to support storytelling and natural acting, having realistic scene painting creates an immersive world.
However, as the rise of modern stage design began in the early 20th century, painted scenery became viewed as outdated.
Tools and techniques
There are a variety of tools and methods used to create textures, patterns, and large scale imagery for theatre productions. Common tools are wide brushes, rollers, sponges, sprayers, and custom built tools that are meant to achieve specific effects.