Dave Blass and Lissette Schettini Pivot to Alternative Gigs as Hollywood Artists Face Disruptions

Hollywood's below-the-line artists are increasingly turning to alternative employment as the industry faces significant disruptions. Emmy-nominated production designer Dave Blass has taken on short-term graphic design jobs and sold autographs at 'Star Trek' conventions to make ends meet. Additionally, he is pursuing FAA-licensed drone photography for real estate listings. Lissette Schettini, another production designer, reported that she has only worked two weeks in 2024 and has not held a production design job since May 2023. She noted that her savings of nearly $90,000 earmarked for a house have been depleted. The ongoing challenges in the industry have forced many artists to pivot to other gigs, as highlighted by various industry professionals.