Meet Marissa Todd | Production Designer

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

Hi Marissa, how do you think about risk?
Risk almost always peaks my interest, it’s edgy, exciting, seductive. I myself find my tolerance pretty middle of the road when it comes to risk. To quote my father, “participating in life requires risk management. Do your research, be as thorough as you can, then make the best decision with the information you have at the time.”

I appreciate how this witticism is the backbone of how I analyze risk, and the potential consequences. Reflecting upon my decisions that has lead me to where I am, think a tolerance for risk, or unintended outcomes is necessary, or else I would not have left my hometown. I’ve come to release the absolutist control I used to crave when I was younger.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What do I provide with my creative works:
As a production designer for film, tv, and theatre, I attempt to enter into each collaboration with a deep respect for the script, to provide a visual dialogue in support of the actors, director’s vision, and writer. To me a script is not limited to text, it can be a melody, movement, an expression. The script is the spine of a production that every other ingredient revolves around. Each process includes deep exploration into materials that create an environment, this in turn allows for a rumination of truth and authenticity stunningly unique to each project.
I find immense satisfaction being a reactionary participant in world building. I get to talk to the director, producers, and writers and help guide a distillation of the rules and regulations of these narrative worlds.
I am uninterested in trends, when I research I try to be as rigorous and honest as possible to decode specifically what is resonating with me about the research. I am drawn to visual feasts, whether that includes maximalism or minimalism, is up to the script, and mouthwatering conversations I get to have with the creative teams.
There is not a lot that I would consider easy about what I get to do, or any industry for that matter. Hours of continued practice on multiple skills. There is a lot of self doubt or self editing that needs to happen in order to be able to show up the best I can for my collaborators, and that is a skill I’m constantly ruminating on.
At the end of the day, I’ve learned that this is all play. I’m a designer, and entertainer. A part of myself gets to great you when you come home from a long day at work, or are out on the town enjoying a live performance. This profession is how I have chosen to connect with people, to learn about diverse cultures, and traditions, and create a world that can be viewed globally and hopefully expand people’s perspectives.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m currently in NYC, and this is a bit of cheat because my best friend used to live here also. We would probably go to an old bar that her boyfriend used to manage. We would go to our favorite Indian restaurant in the West Village, called Mint Masala. I’m keen on taking her up to the Shokan, Phoenicia area of New York. There is a delicious little diner called Phoenicia Diner. Built in 1962, this establishment is a time capsule with an incredible view of the Catskill Mountains.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Way too many people to thank. However an easy cheesy one right off the bat is my parents. Looping risk back into the conversation, my parents took a huge risk in their journey of becoming my parents. They nurtured and raised me. As I’ve grown into my own, my parents have transitioned into mentors who are unwavering in their values.
I’d also like to thank the many teachers and professors I’ve had over the years who encouraged me to apply to myself, pursue refinement, and also recognized when a break was needed.
The friends and colleagues I’ve made over the years is one of the best parts of the industry. It’s a fantastic feeling to see them thrive, and get to reciprocate the support they have shown me.

Website: https://marissatodd.cargo.site

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mtodd.design/

Image Credits
Eric Woolsey
Persona
Isabel Padilla