GearFest Set Design

S W E E T W A T E R

Creative Direction

As the result of the COVID-19 pandemic Sweetwater leaders chose to host GearFest online for the second year in a row. The event included livestreamed interviews, performances, and informational workshops. I and a few creative cohorts tasked ourselves with creating a set on which all of this could take place.

The initial ask was “we’re thinking a desk with foam core panels covered in vinyl behind it”. Our mini team of creative masterminds suggested otherwise as we volunteered to help elevate this concept by building wood panels with some level of dimension. These panels were meant to represent moveable walls that you would find in a recording studio. I presented options using uplights and gobos, dimensional wood representative of sound isolation panels, and semi-transparent plexi glass. The final option was chosen for it’s ability to be lit differently and conceal other stage elements.

Overall feedback was fist pumps and elbow bumps throughout the building. Livestream numbers reached record highs and we were able to reach new audiences with a diverse lineup of guests and this new, unexpected visual look.

Additional creative direction provided by Chad Jenkins and Chris Hershman. Creative support provided by Cody Cooke and Connor Pennington.