Film Job Profiles, Plasterer
Plasterers working in film production are skilled craftsmen, with traditional solid plastering abilities, such as applying plaster and cement mixtures to walls, and fixing ornamental plasterwork. They must also be skilled fibrous Plasterers, able to make complex moulds and model casts from solid plaster or fibreglass. They are normally hired by, and report to, HoD Plasterers. The role requires extensive plastering experience, combined with creative skills, and the ability to work under pressure, to deadlines.
Responsibilities
Plasterers' work on film productions is incredibly varied, and contributes enormously to the look of films. As well as carrying out the traditional plastering tasks associated with domestic Plasterers, such as applying plaster to walls, ceilings and floors, they are also responsible for creating a wide range of key structures and props used in films, ranging from preparing moulds for the interior and exterior walls of a castle building, to making spacecrafts out of fibreglass. They are responsible for running the moulds, mixing and applying all the necessary materials such as plaster or fibreglass, casting the items, using and maintaining the correct hand tools, power tools and equipment, and erecting and dismantling all access equipment.
In the film industry, Plasterers usually specialise in one of two areas: stage-work, which involves fixing up the plasterwork on set and distressing it so that it blends in naturally with its surroundings; or making models and moulds in workshops. In both cases, HoD Plasterers brief them about the work they must produce. Plasterers are responsible for carrying out their work to the required deadlines and specifications. They must also ensure that they adhere to strict Health and Safety guidelines, and carry out their tasks in a safe work environment, as many of the materials they handle are toxic and may be injurious to health.
Skills
Plasterers need excellent technical skills in all areas of plastering. They must also have the creative ability to help construct realistic and effective props and materials. They need the flair to be able to plaster, and fix fibrous material to film sets, so that they look authentic and harmonise with surrounding period details. Plasterers must be able to produce 'perfect' plasterwork, as well as effective, distressed plasterwork. A good eye for detail, and the ability to visualise the finished project, are key skills for this role, usually gained by long experience of working on film productions. Plasterers must be literate and numerate, as the ability to understand complex drawings, specifications and technical literature is essential. They need to be good team players, hard working and punctual.
Qualifications/Experience
Plasterers in the film industry usually progress to this role after spending several years working as domestic plasterers. Most Plasterers have accredited qualifications, such as the Intermediate Construction Award, or a CITB NVQ in Plastering at level 3. Detailed knowledge of the requirements of the relevant Health and Safety legislation and procedures when working with plastering materials is essential. As the role involves travel, a full EU driving licence is required.
Individual course accreditation in certain subject areas is currently being piloted. As part of Skillset's and the UK Film Council's Film Skills Strategy, A Bigger Future, a network of Screen Academies and a Film Business Academy have been approved as centres of excellence in education and training for film.
Where to go for more information
Skillset is the Sector Skills Council for the Audio Visual Industries. The first sources of information for all jobs in the industry are the National Occupational Standards. Browse Skillset's website for links to our network of training partners, information about training and access to the comprehensive Skillset/BFI course database. Finally, Skillset Careers is UK's only specialist media careers advice service; for detailed media careers information and advice, visit www.skillset.org/careers.
