Ephemeral Construction

Oversee finishes and aesthetic details to ensure consistency with the design and quality standards. 
Translate a scenographic concept into creative construction solutions that are functional and viable. 
Adapt materials, textures and volumes to the visual intent of the project. 

Interpret technical drawings, sketches and systems of graphic representation. 
Use AutoCAD to visualize and plan temporary spaces. 
Handle hand tools, power and carpentry tools in accordance with safety criteria. 
Apply techniques for painting, textile, modelling, mould-making, coatings and finishes. 
Build, assemble, erect and dismantle temporary structures efficiently. 

Plan human resources, materials, timings and costs for an ephemeral construction. 
Organise the project from pre-production through to installation, dismantling and handover. 
Resolve unforeseen technical issues and adjust processes, materials or designs. 
Adapt solutions to indoor and outdoor spaces and their constraints. 
Monitor quality, safety, deadlines and budget throughout implementation. 

Communicate instructions, needs and technical decisions clearly. 
Coordinate tasks and works effectively with the various members of the team. 
Provide operational leadership in the organisation of the work. 
Make swift decisions when faced with issues during construction, assembly or dismantling.  

Develop independence, rigour and attention to detail in the work in the workshop. 
Adapt to changes in space, resources, schedules, and creative needs.  
Work responsibly and apply risk prevention criteria. 
Persevere in the search for technical solutions and in improving the final result. 

Study painting materials, supports, tools, surface preparation, colour, textures, imitations, patinas, ageing effects and coatings applied to set design.

Work with materials, tools and processes for carving, modelling, rigid and flexible moulds and reproduction of scenic elements, including calculations for materials and costs. 
Cover techniques for coating, reinforcement and texturing of three-dimensional models, material strength, chemical products, resins and prevention and safety criteria. 

Explore fabrics, tools, making processes, dyeing, finishing, upholstery and coverings, as well as sourcing, storage, costs and risk prevention.

Develop the interpretation and preparation of sketches, sections, components and assemblies, applying the graphic representation systems used in carpentry and furniture-making.  

Transform scenic design proposals into construction solutions: taking measurements, selecting materials and hardware, preparing budgets and technical documentation, and using automation and numerical control.

Plan human and material resources, equipment, schedules and timelines; supervises operations, monitors the process, and controls quality, efficiency and compliance.

Apply machining, assembly, installation, staining and wood-finishing processes, monitoring surfaces, products, drying, quality and environmental protection.

Integrate workplace safety and risk prevention into the use of machines, tools, facilities, products and construction processes. 

ÁGORA is a year-long, cross-disciplinary course in ESCAC’s Department of Master’s Programmes. It runs from September to June and is conceived as a shared space for filmmaking. It brings together learning from the different programmes through a collective creative experience: developing, pre-producing, shooting, finishing and exhibiting a short film.  ‌ 

ÁGORA is the practical backbone of master’s-level training: a space where specialties intersect, industry dynamics are explored, and teams are formed that can last beyond the school. The completed film is the visible result of a learning process that includes creation, organisation, collaboration and collective responsibility. 

The students develop, plan and carry out the construction of a set. The project includes a technical dossier, plans, a budget, a schedule, coordination of the team, construction, a record of the process and an oral presentation before an assessment panel. 

The FCP committee approves the procedure for assignment, appoints the assessment panels, establishes the rubrics and coordinates the periods of assessment and defense. The presentation requires, at least, a written report and a public defense. 

Sessions to pre-produce, produce and complete the main projects of the course.

Classes led by professionals who deepen specific knowledge in the discipline.

Production-focused activities in which the theoretical and technical knowledge acquired is applied.

The assessment is based on practical work, the application of techniques, planning, the quality of execution and finishes, solving problems, safety and collaboration. The TFC includes supervision by the tutor and assessment by a panel based on the report, the process, the technical outcome and the oral defence.