Experience, Imagination, and Freedom: A Master in Pursuit of Art
The magical world of cinema is not just the story of those in front of the camera. Behind the curtain, there is a world where every detail is meticulously thought out, where every scene is a work of art. Today, we will meet one of the masters of this mysterious world: the production designer Canan Özkan Arslan. With 23 years of experience and passion that leaves a mark on the industry, Arslan offers us the opportunity to explore the colorful world behind the scenes of cinema.
- HELLO MS. CANAN, WELCOME. COULD YOU TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF?
CANAN ÖZKAN ARSLAN: Sure. I'm Canan. I'm 41 years old and have been in the industry for 23 years. I'm self-taught and have been in the industry since a very young age. I've worked on numerous films, both in direction and production. Right now, I'm primarily focused on set design, which is my favorite aspect of the job.
- WHAT DO YOU DO AS A PRODUCTION DESIGNER?
CANAN ÖZKAN ARSLAN: As a production designer, I have control over setting the tone and atmosphere of a location during the conceptual stage of a project or script, working closely with the director who will be filming there. However, we do everything. From painting, to arranging, to recreating details from scratch.
- WHAT PATH SHOULD ONE FOLLOW TO BECOME A PRODUCTION DESIGNER?
CANAN ÖZKAN ARSLAN: I believe one should work very hard because the more you work, the more your horizons expand. Experience is crucial. Additionally, having imagination and a broad perspective is important.
- HOW DO YOU CONTINUOUSLY IMPROVE YOURSELF?
CANAN ÖZKAN ARSLAN: I've developed by working with challenging directors. They broaden my horizons. Also, I learn something new every day. Experience is very important in this job.
- WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE ASPECT OF YOUR PROFESSION?
CANAN ÖZKAN ARSLAN: Being free. I love freedom. I can't sit at a fixed desk or in front of a monitor all day. Being constantly on the move suits me well.
- CAN ANYONE BE A PRODUCTION DESIGNER?
CANAN ÖZKAN ARSLAN: I think so. Anyone with imagination can do this job. Talent and experience are important, but I believe anyone can do this job.
- WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT QUALITY OF A GOOD PRODUCTION DESIGNER?
CANAN ÖZKAN ARSLAN: I think they should be both talented and experienced. Experience is always important because you learn something new in every job. Imagination is also crucial.
- WHAT CHALLENGES HAVE YOU FACED AS A PRODUCTION DESIGNER?
CANAN ÖZKAN ARSLAN: We may face budget constraints. We often encounter budget issues in job interviews. This can sometimes be challenging.
- HOW HAVE DIGITAL PLATFORMS AFFECTED YOUR LIFE?
CANAN ÖZKAN ARSLAN: Digital platforms have made my job easier because they've offered more job opportunities. However, we struggle to find assistants because everyone sets their own price.
- IN WHICH JOB DID YOU SAY, "I REALLY DID WHAT I WANTED TO DO HERE"?
CANAN ÖZKAN ARSLAN: In the project called "Erkek Severse" (If a Man Loves). I really tried to do my best in this project and with the great support of the company, we delivered a beautiful project.
CANAN ÖZKAN ARSLAN: Thank you very much for this wonderful interview.
We've opened a window into the backstage of cinema through the eyes of production designer Canan Özkan Arslan. With the strength derived from her experiences and passion, Arslan works with masterful skill that pushes boundaries in every project, contributing a valuable addition to the enchanting world of cinema. Thanks for this time spent with her; we hope to encounter many more colorful and magical projects in the future.
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