Meet Katherine Jelte | Production Designer, Art Director & Set Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Katherine Jelte and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Katherine, how do you think about risk?
Risk constitutes a fundamental element in life and career development, akin to the seasoning that elevates an otherwise ordinary dish. It acts as the driving force behind progress and innovation, functioning as the catalyst that propels individuals beyond their comfort zones and into uncharted territories.

In my personal experience, embracing risk has resulted in profound personal growth and transformative experiences. It has served as a gateway to new opportunities and facilitated self-discovery on both a human and designer level.

As an ambitious teenager, I turned to Google with a straightforward query, “Film Schools Utah.” This quest led me to East Hollywood High School, a public charter institution dedicated to the art of film. Despite its 45-minute distance and the initial disapproval of my mother, I ventured to take the train and enroll myself while she was at work. I boldly left the necessary paperwork in her room. When she reluctantly agreed, on the condition that I independently manage my way to school, it left me unsure if she was impressed by my determination or simply too fatigued to argue. In any case, I considered it a personal victory, and this risk significantly altered the course of my life.

Upon completing my undergraduate studies in Utah, my journey underwent a momentous transformation when I applied to UCLA TFT. While initially apprehensive due to the lack of support from some in my life for pursuing further education, I wholeheartedly embraced the experience. UCLA became a turning point, providing me with the opportunity to learn from some of the industry’s foremost designers, including luminaries like Mark Worthington, Rachel Rob Kondrath, Tony Fanning, and Nathan Schroeder. The faculty played a pivotal role in my life, as the program not only honed my technical skills but also cultivated my identity as a designer. Each week, I stood before these exceptional designers and my peers, straddling the fine line between success and setbacks. This experience offered a chance for growth and development while demanding the ability to set aside one’s ego in pursuit of greatness.

Taking this leap also led me to the Art Director’s Guild Production Design Initiative, an association I am immensely proud to be a part of.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Absolutely, I’d love to share my journey and what sets me apart. My passion for the world of cinema was ignited at a young age, thanks to those memorable trips to the theater with my dad. It’s what has driven me to where I am today. As a teenager, I took matters into my own hands and enrolled myself at East Hollywood High School, despite the 45-minute daily train commute and my mom’s initial reluctance.

During my time at East Hollywood High, my teacher, Mark Davis, recognized my potential and encouraged me to become an art director, solidifying my desire to pursue production design. After high school, I committed to college, starting at Salt Lake Community College. Financial resources were tight, but I persevered and eventually transferred to the University of Utah, where I double-majored in Film & Media Studies and Theatre Design, focusing on scenic and costume design.

The turning point in my professional journey came when I was admitted to the MFA program at UCLA TFT, specializing in Production and Scenic Design. The faculty at UCLA, including luminaries like Mark Worthington, played a pivotal role in shaping my skills and identity as a designer.

One of the most challenging moments in my journey was the tragic loss of both of my parents during my time at UCLA. It left me emotionally and physically drained, and I contemplated leaving the program. But the incredible support of my professors and fellow students allowed me to grieve and find the strength to continue.

What sets me apart is my belief in the power of collaboration and my eagerness to explore new techniques. I’m proud of my expertise in 3D rendering, drafting, and graphic design, which I use to bring imaginative concepts to life. My ability to connect with audiences through the stories I help visualize is what truly matters to me.

The journey hasn’t been easy, but the determination, passion, and support from mentors and peers have been instrumental in overcoming the challenges. I’ve been recognized as a PDI Candidate at the Art Director’s Guild and received the DeMille Award in Production Design, which fuels my passion to innovate and create captivating worlds.

What I want the world to know is that my work isn’t just about creating visually stunning scenes; it’s about fostering empathy, understanding, and meaningful connections through design and storytelling. My personal journey, including the challenges I’ve faced, has made me more empathetic and driven in my work, and I hope to continue making a difference in the world through the stories I bring to life on screen.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love this question because I absolutely love CA! If a friend who had never been to LA before was visiting for a few days, here’s how I’d plan their itinerary for the best time ever:

Day 1: Exploring Art and Culture
– We’d start with a museum hop along the Miracle Mile, visiting LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art) and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures.
– In the evening, a visit to Griffith Observatory would be a must to catch a stunning sunset and see the stars.

Day 2: Iconic Landmarks and Food Adventures
– To start the day, we’d visit The Alcove in Los Feliz for a charming relaxed garden brunch.
– We’d spend the day exploring iconic spots like the Getty Center with its incredible art collections and breathtaking architecture.
– For lunch, we’d head to Grand Central Market for a diverse culinary experience and some people-watching.

Day 3: Beach Day in San Diego
– We’d take a day trip down to San Diego and spend a relaxing day at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, enjoying the stunning coastal views.
– In the evening, we’d catch a show at the La Jolla Playhouse, known for its innovative theater productions.
– Dinner and drinks in downtown San Diego to end the day.

Day 4: Exploring LA’s Neighborhoods
– We’d dedicate the day to exploring LA’s diverse neighborhoods, from the trendy Arts District to the historic Olvera Street.
– Lunch at a local spot in Silver Lake or Echo Park to savor the local food scene.
In the afternoon we’d go down to Long Beach to go to The Wild Chive and hit up the dog beach before sunset.

Day 5: Nature and Adventure
– A day in the great outdoors with a hike in Runyon Canyon, offering panoramic views of the city.
– We’d continue the adventure with a visit to the Los Angeles Zoo, a fun and educational experience.

Day 6: Beach and Farewell
– We’d end the week with a leisurely day at one of LA’s iconic beaches, perhaps Santa Monica or Venice Beach.
– Lunch at a beachside cafe to soak in the oceanfront vibes.
– A farewell dinner at a coastal restaurant with fresh seafood and a view of the Pacific.

This itinerary would give my friend a taste of the city’s cultural richness, natural beauty, and diverse culinary scene, ensuring they have the best time ever during their visit to LA.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Mark Worthington, Rachel Rob Kondrath, Tony Fanning, and Nathan Schroeder. The faculty and staff at UCLA. They changed my life.

Website: katherinejelte.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/katherine_jelte