Introduction to the Art Department

Date: May 23, 2026 (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
Location: 245 McDermot Ave – 2nd floor
Registration Fee: $85.00

Register: Intro to the Art Department (IATSE Members & Permittees ONLY!)

Name(Required)

About the Workshop:

During this one-day course, film professionals Khali Wenaus and Jonathan Van Winkle will provide an introductory course on the Art Department for the film industry.

This course will go into detail about the workflow of the art department during all stages of film production. Using a combination of both theory and practical instruction, the course participants will gain a greater understanding of the role of the department, the professional requirements and its relationship with other departments such as Accounting, Assistant Directing, Production, Producers and Transport.

Topics covered will include:

• Overview of the Art Department’s role on a film production.

• The job classifications and descriptions of the Art Department’s minimum qualifications.

• The physical and digital set up of the department including essential tool kits, research, mood boards, local and cloud-based file organization and team communication software.

• Overview of production paperwork including the budget, the call sheet, calendar and the one-line schedule.

• Script breakdown for the Art Department.


About the Instructors:

Jonathan Van Winkle: With over 20 years in the Winnipeg film industry as a Graphic Artist, Jon’s graphics, concept renderings, look books and palettes have been integral to building the visual world of numerous films and television shows. As an Art Director for series like The Porter and Little Bird, Jon works closely with art teams to realize the Production Designers’ vision, crafting real-world solutions that work within the constraints of each production. Jon’s obsession with problem-solving also sees him regularly experimenting with new systems and technologies to improve Art Department workflows. Jon is excited to share his knowledge with newcomers to the Art Department

Khali Wenaus has built a successful career over the last 20 years in the Manitoba film industry. She has gained extensive experience in the art department, managing large crews, tracking multi-million-dollar budgets, and coordinating complex production requirements. Khali brings knowledge and expertise, blended with a kind-hearted approach to every project. Now firmly established in the film community, she strives to share those insights with others as they grow and prosper in their own creative careers.


Cancellation Policy

  • Participants must cancel up to 4 full business days prior to the course start date to receive an 80% refund.
  • No refund will be given to participants who cancel within 4 full business days before the course start date, or if they do not attend the course.
  • Film Training Manitoba reserves the right to cancel, or postpone, any course where a minimum registration level has not been met. Participants registered for a course that is canceled will receive a full refund.

FTM is a non-for-profit charity and member of the Province of Manitoba’s Sector Council program funded through the Economic Development, Investment, Trade and Natural Resources. FTM builds a highly skilled and adaptable film industry workforce to support the activities of Manitoba production companies. FTM collaborates and partners with members of the film industry to identify training needs to support workforce development.