Resume

Israel Mercado

Art Director/Sr. Production Designer

c: 407.808.2123

http://www.linkedin.com/in/israelmercado

Executive Summary

Over 15 years of design experience in the themed entertainment industry, with a history of success in concept and area development, production design, and art direction.  A highly creative leader with an international background in Asia delivering world-class, immersive entertainment that results in significant revenue and memorable guest experiences. Industry reputation for resourcefulness, determination, commitment to quality, and a passion for originality.


Professional Experience/Project Involvement

Sr. Production Designer/Art Director

Wizarding World of Harry Potter –Universal Studios Japan.

Universal Studios Japan 2012-present

Orlando, Florida

  • Provide Art Direction and Creative buy-offs to vendors for attraction and land show elements such as; Show Sets, Show equipment, Props, Lighting, and Audio/Video.
  • Worked as part of the Project Team in the design and development of site planning and building architecture.
  • Create sketches, CAD drawings, and 3D models of; plans, elevations, sections, and details using AutoCAD, Adobe Photoshop & Illustrator, and Google Sketchup to clarify design intent, and facilitate vendor construction and installation.
  • Reviewed vendor shop drawings ensuring creative intent and scenic integration with other systems.
  • Work closely with vendors clarifying directives and meeting USJ Theme Park Standards.
  • Ensure IP standards and expections are met coordinating drawings and submittals.

 

Art Director

Universal Studios Singapore, Cartoon Wonderland China, Dream Kingdom Korea, Happyland Vietnam

ITEC Entertainment Corporation, 2008-2012

Orlando, Florida

  • Conducted blue-sky charrettes establishing storyline, guest experience, and creative intent for projects such as; Cartoon Wonderland Theme Park, China, and many other individual worldwide attractions.
  • Created Concept Show Design packages including Storyboards, Show Scripts, Show timing charts, narratives, along with supporting documentation such as; show element lists, facility inputs, design documentation, SOW requirements and specifications, and drawing creation.
  • Spearheaded the Art Direction of successful designs and installations of; show sets & scenic, animation, flame effects, show lighting, audio/video, and ride timing.
  • Created extensive sketches and computer drawings of; plans, elevations, sections, and details using AutoCAD, Adobe Photoshop & Illustrator, and Google Sketchup facilitating vendor construction and installation.
  • Integrated critical scenic details and show elements with overall facility design, and creative intent.
  • Maintained extensive theme park specifications and guidelines throughout design process.
  • International experience in Singapore and Malaysia.
  • Field Art Direction and Prop Installation.

 

Art Director (Florida)

Universal Studios Florida, Universal Studios Dubái

Adirondack Scenic, 2002-2008

Argyle, New York

  • Art Director for Attraction Show sets & scenics.
  • Created Show Production packages including, facility inputs, design documentation, and specifications for attractions including; Revenge of the Mummy USF, Woody Wood Pecker USD, Toy R us, NY and many others.
  • Spearheaded the Art Direction of fabrication and installations of show sets & scenics
  • Created and produced extensive computer sketches and drawings of; plans, elevations, sections, and details using AutoCAD, Adobe Photoshop & Illustrator for Scenic and Show elements facilitating shop construction and scenic installation.
  • Selection of materials, colors, and FF&E.
  • Creation of Graphics & Signage packages.
  • Field Art Direction and Prop Installation.

 

Design Manager

International Theme Projects and Museums

Sparks Exhibits, 2000-2003

Orlando, Florida

  • Creation of show sets & scenic packages included facility input, design documentation, and drawing creation and renderings.
  • Created and produced sketches, plans, sections, elevations and details using AutoCAD and adobe Illustrator for shop fabrication and submittals.
  • Managed a design team of graphic artist and CAD technicians.
  • Documented as-built conditions and updating packages accordingly.   

 

Production Designer

Islands of Adventure Florida, Spiderman USF, Men In Black USF, LegoLand California

The Nassal Company, 1997-2000

Orlando, Florida

  • Assisted in creating show sets & scenic packages included facility input, design documentation, and drawing creation and renderings for projects in IOA and Universal Studios Florida.
  • Created and produced sketches, plans, sections, elevations and details using AutoCAD for shop fabrication and submittals.
  • Created 2D perspectives and 3D basic models of critical concerns throughout the attractions.
  • Maintained extensive theme park specifications and guidelines of overhead safety and GPS T1 & 2.
  • Worked closely with Universal Studios art directors and third party structural engineers to ensure creative intent and structural requirements were met.
  • Documented as-built conditions and updating packages accordingly.   

Proficiencies

AutoCAD 2013, Google SketchUp, 3Ds Max, Lumion 3D, AfterEffects, Adobe Photoshop & Illustrator, MS Office.


Academic/Professional Qualifications

Academy of Art University, San Francisco, CA

-Master in Architecture

University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL.

-Bachelor of Arts

 

References & Portfolio of work upon request



© Israel Mercado 2013