Olivia J Laird
Brooklyn,NY
Summary
Multidisciplinary creative professional with extensive experience in art direction, set design, and fabrication within film, commercial, and visual production environments. Experienced handling, transporting, and installing high-value artwork and delicate set pieces while maintaining strict attention to preservation, detail, and visual integrity. Skilled in coordinating with designers, art departments, and production teams to fabricate custom display environments and ensure continuity and protection of artworks throughout production and installation processes. Combines a strong artistic background with advanced technical craftsmanship, including carpentry, fabrication, scenic painting, upholstery, and custom build work. Brings additional hands-on experience in facilities maintenance and construction, including precision carpentry, electrical and plumbing repair, and building upkeep, with a reputation for problem solving, careful handling, and delivering high-quality work in demanding environments.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Art Director/Commercial
Self Employed
Chicago, IL
01.2017 - Current
- Managed all technical aspects of designing and building film sets.
- Managed crew of stylists, union laborers, and fabricators.
- Coordinated completion of artistic vision(s) with directors and directors of photography.
- Managed employee wages and earnings
- Built and decorated film sets across multiple genres in various environments in the US and abroad.
- Worked with many top name brand companies including but not limited to Kingsford Charcoal, Fingerhut, Blume, Fiora, Papa John's, WNBA, Abbvie and various pharmaceutical companies.
- Oversaw the entire creative process from concept development to final production, ensuring high-quality deliverables
- Provided art direction and guidance to designers, photographers, illustrators, and other creative professionals
- Cultivated a positive and collaborative work environment that fostered creativity and innovation
- Handled high end art pieces and kept detailed records and budgets.
- Packing and delivering art into large box trucks. Driving and parking safely downtown and in rural areas around Chicago.
On Set Dresser
IATSE Local
Chicago, IL
09.2018 - Current
- Worked and coordinated with art department Production Designer.
- Directly report to the Decorator of each set to help continue design continuity.
- Maintained integrity of sets as art departments have designed.
- Keep extensive notes and photos of each set and seen for continuity.
- Repaired faulty furniture and set prices.
- Installed lighting fixtures.
- ReUpholstered furniture.
- Mounted and pressed drapes.
- Coordinated between Art and Camera department.
- Oversaw camera testing.
- Monitored and directed all things associated with the sets visuals.
- Problem solved quickly and efficiently within seconds to keep up with high demands of the filmmaking process.
Set Designer/Builder
Private Contractor/ IATSE Local 476
Chicago, IL
11.2017 - Current
- Sourced and transported creative materials keeping sustainability in mind.
- Worked with other designers and clients to design and build sets/doorframes/and windows customized to fit project requirements.
- Painted and aged set gallery walls and flats.
- Transported high end art and set pieces.
Property Maintenance Worker
Open Path Realty
Chicago, IL
05.2024 - Current
- Conducted regular property inspections to ensure compliance with safety regulations and maintenance standards
- Conducted regular inspections of HVAC systems, identifying and resolving issues to maintain efficient operation
- Performed routine maintenance and repairs on residential properties, ensuring optimal functionality and safety
- Maintained accurate records of all maintenance activities, including work orders, repairs performed, and materials used
- Performed carpentry tasks such as framing walls, installing doors/windows, and repairing/replacing damaged woodwork
- Managed inventory of supplies/tools needed for daily operations, restocking as necessary to avoid delays in completing tasks
- Assisted in the preparation of vacant units for new tenants by performing deep cleaning tasks/painting touch-ups
- Conducted regular inspections of fire safety equipment (e.g., smoke detectors, fire extinguishers) to ensure compliance with regulations
Carpenter
Cafe Jumping Bean
Chicago, IL
08.2015 - Current
- Utilized a wide range of power tools, hand tools, and equipment to complete carpentry tasks efficiently
- Executed precise measurements and calculations to ensure accurate installation of fixtures and materials
- Managed all aspects of the remodeling process including demolition, framing, drywall installation, and finishing work
- Performed repairs on existing structures by replacing damaged woodwork or fixtures as needed
- Maintained a clean and organized work area throughout each project to ensure safety compliance
- Installed doors, windows, trim work, crown molding, baseboards with precision craftsmanship
- Assisted in the selection of appropriate building materials based on project specifications and budget constraints
- Incorporated sustainable practices into construction methods such as using reclaimed wood or eco-friendly finishes when possible
- Managed inventory levels by monitoring supplies usage for cost-effective purchasing decisions
- Demonstrated strong problem-solving skills by finding creative solutions to unexpected construction challenges
Maintenance Worker
The Second City
Chicago, IL
07.2023 - 07.2026
- Repaired theater and stage equipment.
- Organized and maintained shop tools and equipment.
- Utilized creative problem solving to complete projects around the building.
- Repainted office rooms for staff and clients.
- Repainted entire sections of student classrooms over 3,000 sq feet.
- Inspected buildings to identify any repair or maintenance needs, promptly addressing issues to prevent further damage.
- Responded promptly to emergency situations such as plumbing leaks or electrical failures, taking appropriate action to resolve issues quickly.
- Created detailed reports documenting all building maintenance activities including repairs made, equipment serviced/replaced etc. providing accurate records for future reference.
- Performed minor repairs on plumbing fixtures such as faucets, toilets, and sinks, reducing the need for outside contractors and saving money in repair costs.
Independent Contractor
Self
Chicago, IL
12.2022 - Current
- Painting
- Plumbing
- Fence Building
- Drywall Repair/Install
- Caulking
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with clients, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
- Implemented effective project management strategies to optimize workflow and meet project deadlines.
- Utilized strong problem-solving skills to troubleshoot issues and provide effective solutions.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Production Design/Telecommunications
Ball State University
Muncie, IN05-2015
Skills
- Art Handling & Installation – Safe handling, transport, and installation of artwork, set pieces, and delicate visual materials
- Scenic Construction & Fabrication – Building custom sets, flats, frames, and display structures for film and commercial productions
- Precision Carpentry – Framing, cabinetry, millwork, trim work, and custom builds
- Exhibition & Display Preparation – Mounting artwork, installing drapery, staging environments, and maintaining visual continuity
- Scenic Painting & Finishing – Aging techniques, surface treatments, and decorative finishing for visual environments
- Furniture Restoration & Upholstery – Repairing, modifying, and restoring furniture and set elements
- Creative Problem Solving – Rapid troubleshooting and adaptation in fast-paced production environments
- Art Department Collaboration – Working with production designers, decorators, and camera departments to execute creative visions
- Material Sourcing & Fabrication Planning – Selecting appropriate materials and fabrication methods for custom builds
- Professional Tool & Shop Skills – Advanced use of power tools, hand tools, fabrication equipment, and workshop organization
Timeline
Property Maintenance Worker
Open Path Realty
05.2024 - Current
Maintenance Worker
The Second City
07.2023 - 07.2026
Independent Contractor
Self
12.2022 - Current
On Set Dresser
IATSE Local
09.2018 - Current
Set Designer/Builder
Private Contractor/ IATSE Local 476
11.2017 - Current
Art Director/Commercial
Self Employed
01.2017 - Current
Carpenter
Cafe Jumping Bean
08.2015 - Current
Bachelor of Arts - Production Design/Telecommunications
Ball State University