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Background Artist Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

Arena Stage

Scenic Artist

Washington, DC · On-site

$23 - $24.75/hr

Focused on American artists, our productions are innovative and representative of stories from ... Offers of employment at Arena Stage are contingent upon a satisfactory criminal background check ...

Arena Stage

Scenic Artist

Washington, DC · On-site

$23 - $24.75/hr

Focused on American artists, our productions are innovative and representative of stories from ... background check and/or professional reference check as allowed by employment law in the District ...

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All JobsBackground Artist JobsBackground Artist Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Background Artist information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$9

$25

$41

How much do background artist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for background artist in Silver Spring, MD is $25.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do background artists typically collaborate with other members of the animation team during a production?

Background artists work closely with art directors, layout artists, and animators to ensure the visual environment supports the story and character actions. They often attend team meetings to review storyboards and receive feedback, making adjustments to maintain consistency in style and mood. Effective communication and flexibility are key, as background artists may need to revise their work to align with changes in direction or animation requirements. This collaborative process helps create immersive settings that enhance the overall animation project.

What is a background artist?

Background artists, also known as background painters or environment artists, are professionals who create the scenery, landscapes, and environments seen behind the main subjects in animated films, television shows, video games, and illustrations. Their work helps set the mood, establish the setting, and support the storytelling by providing detailed and visually appealing backgrounds. Background artists collaborate closely with other members of the art and animation team to ensure consistency in style and vision throughout the project.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a background artist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Background Artist, you need strong artistic ability in drawing, painting, and composition, usually supported by a portfolio and relevant art or design education. Familiarity with digital illustration software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and industry-standard tools like Toon Boom or Blender is often necessary. Attention to detail, creativity, and effective collaboration are vital soft skills for producing visually cohesive environments. These skills ensure that backgrounds enhance storytelling and maintain visual consistency in animation, games, or film productions.

How to get hired as a background artist?

To get hired as a background artist, build a strong portfolio showcasing your environment and scene work, and gain proficiency in tools like Photoshop, SketchUp, or Blender. Relevant experience, a good understanding of perspective and color, and networking within the industry can improve your chances of employment.

How much do background artists make?

Background artists in the entertainment industry typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and project scope. Entry-level artists may start lower, while experienced professionals or those working on major productions can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by freelance work or overtime. Skills in digital painting, animation software, and a strong portfolio can influence earning potential.

What is the difference between Background Artist vs Concept Artist?

AspectBackground ArtistConcept Artist
Required CredentialsArt degree or equivalent, portfolioArt degree or equivalent, portfolio
Work EnvironmentFilm, TV, animation studiosVideo game, film, animation studios
Industry UsageCreates backgrounds for scenesDesigns characters, environments, ideas
Common Search IntentBackground design, scene creationCharacter and environment concepts

Background Artists focus on creating detailed backgrounds and environments for scenes in animation, film, and TV. Concept Artists develop initial designs and visual ideas for characters, settings, and objects. While both roles require strong artistic skills and similar credentials, Background Artists specialize in scene backgrounds, whereas Concept Artists work on conceptualizing the overall look and feel of projects.

What are popular job titles related to Background Artist jobs in Silver Spring, MD?

For Background Artist jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Background Artist jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Background Artist jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

Background Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Background Artist job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,832 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Scenic Artist

Arena Stage

Washington, DC • On-site

$23 - $24.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 hours ago

Job description

WHO WE AREArena Stage is the voice of American theater resident in our nation's capital. Focused on American artists, our productions are innovative and representative of stories from across the country. We nurture new plays and reimagine classics. We celebrate our democracy and diversity through a multitude of voices in our productions and community engagement programs to inspire people to action. WHAT WE VALUEA work culture that values experimentation and collaboration.Excellence in all aspects of our endeavor.Diversity, Equity, Accessibility and Inclusion throughout the Organization and within our audience and the community.Community Service through education and public engagement.Lead effective partnerships and collaboration to serve artists and arts professionals. WHAT YOU'LL DOThe Scenic Artist acts as the primary scenic artist for all Arena Stage productions and events. MINIMUM/CORE REQUIREMENTS: 2-4 years experience scenic art, mural work, fine art, theatrical scenery, related artistic fields or educational equivalent1 year experience in a leadership roleSKILLS REQUIRED: Experience in faux finishing (wood grain, marble, stone, etc.), textures, foam carving/sculpting, drawing, drop layout work, color matching and mixing, aging & distressing techniquesAbility to use HVLP, airless, airbrush, and pump sprayers.Knowledge of current safety standards, MSDS's and OSHA practicesAbility to work quickly and efficiently while maintaining qualityAttention to detail in all aspectsAbility to read draftings and renderings/elevationsAbility to adapt to frequently changing circumstances, work collaboratively with other employees and guest artists, and maintain a positive attitude in challenging situationsKEY FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO:Execute scenic treatments on all scenery pieces and specialty prop pieces, as directed by the Scenic Charge ArtistIn conjunction with the Scenic Charge Artist, lead a team of over hire scenic artists in the execution of scenic treatmentsIn conjunction with the Scenic Charge Artist, maintain paint shop tools, inventories, and cleanlinessIn conjunction with the Scenic Charge Artist, maintain all three theatre spaces for internal and external eventsCreate touch up kits for Production Carpenters to maintain the finish of each show throughout the runMay be required to work late nights and holidays depending on show needsPHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:Ability to climb and work from lifts/ladders with or without reasonable accommodationFrequently required to use repetitive hand motions and to reach and bendAbility to stand for 8-10 hours per dayCapable of wearing a respirator The Washington Drama Society, Inc., Arena Stage does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations.If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to access job openings or apply for a job on this site as a result of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodations by contacting Human Resources at hr@arenastage.org.Offers of employment at Arena Stage are contingent upon a satisfactory criminal background check and/or professional reference check as allowed by employment law in the District of Columbia. 
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