In celebration of LDI’s 30th anniversary—1988-2018—Live Design gives a shout out to 30 Under 30: thirty young movers and shakers who are changing paradigms, looking at things from new angles, and rapidly rising to the forefront of their field. From scenic, lighting, projection, and costume designers to technicians and programmers, as well as those who work for manufacturers, production companies, or rental shops, our 30 Under 30 are the harbingers of tomorrow.
First up is Aron Altmark, creative director of entertainment design firm Visual Endeavors, Inc., a Live Design contributor and technical editor, and an all-around master of wit. Altmark's background in dance and theatre as well as clubs and music festivals lends him a wide range of skills in production/lighting design and show programming for the likes of Tiësto, Logic, and The Chainsmokers as well as Gerald Casel Dance, Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre, and UNLV Opera & Nevada Conservatory Theatre. He will also be speaking at the LDI-branded program, Entrenamiento LDI: México at sound:check XPO in Mexico City on April 22-24, 2018. It is likely many of you know Altmark or know of him, but if you feel like knowing a little more, check out his fun facts below and be sure to check out his website for an in-depth look at his latest endeavors.
Name: Aron Altmark
Age: 28
City, State of residence: Santa Cruz, CA
Position/title: Owner, Creative Director, Visual Endeavors Inc
Current project(s): Designing for Tiësto shows; light art installation here in Santa Cruz; some interactive art projects; one-offs with Logic. Ramping up for more this year!
Most notable achievements: Doing two jobs in two different states for a week at the same time (it hurt)
When I started in this industry: Live entertainment since 2010; before that, was involved in theatre/dance since 2005
How I got into this industry: Theatre and dance, working in scene shops in Birmingham, Alabama
Influences: Light & Space Artists (Turrell, Eliasson), Steve Lieberman, Chip Perry, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer
Worst advice I’ve ever heard: “But who really needs sleep?"
Best advice I’ve ever heard: “Three colors max.”
Altmark_LDI30U30 from visualendeavors on Vimeo.
My favorite thing about the production industry: Being able to mix art and tech
Favorite design/programming/technical trick: Red/blue single group effect (making the optical train move)
Other interests/side gigs: Dog dad, mountain biking, photography
Plans for the future: More art, architecture, and installations
Awards, honors: This is the best one!
Organizations, memberships: USITT, CalArts Alum
Website if applicable: www.visualendeavors.com
Other: @visualendeavors & @aronaltmark (mostly dog photos) on Instagram
Check out Live Design/LDI's other 30 Under 30:
- Olivia Sebesky, Projection Designer
- Matthew Palumbo, Technical Coordinator
- Bobby L. Grey, Lighting Designer
- Joe McCarthy, Production Manager/FOH Engineer
- Lauren T. Roark, Costume Designer