Like mentioned in my previous post I seen Oscar nominee Mark Bridges at FIDM today. I had approached him to talk about his designs for The Artist. He’s a very sweet and humble guy who agreed to talk and pose for a picture.

The entire series of events that happened before my interview with Mark was just the cherry on the top. As you may imagine the life of a costume designer is very busy, wether it’s interviews, fittings or filming. So for me to jump out of no where and ask for an on the spot interview seems like something out of the question. But being a nice guy he agreed, how ever the gallery curator didn’t.

She rudely decided to interrupt our conversation and in a snobby tone asked, “and you are who?” Mark proceeded to say with a smirk, “a fan.” She left to talk on her phone while we went out to take out picture. Before we even pulled out the camera the curator pulled me aside to say, “Mark is very busy and has to leave. I’m sorry, but he doesn’t have time for you.” Mark looked at me and responded, “No no I told him I would talk and take a picture with him and that’s what I’m going to do.” I’m just going to gloat about this for a while….

I knew he was busy so I only wanted to ask him two questions, “What inspired you to create the fantastic costumes for the film? And are you excited about your Oscar nomination?”

Mark stated,” Well a great script really, the description of the scenes gave me a great idea of what the characters wore and who they were.The scenes changed a lot, so I had to really think about that as well. Even though the film is in black and white, color and texture played a lot into to the costumes. You see different hues or shades really, different textures; sequin, beads, furs, even the layering of some outfits. I didn’t want to make plain gray and black outfits, what would be the point of that. After I figured out more or less what the color pallet and textures should be, we created these pieces. They came out amazing to be honest, we really only had 8 week to design and make these outfits.

Yes! I’m so happy to even be nominated for an Oscar. This is my first nomination and it’s quite an honor.”

Mark was such a genuine and humble person to talk with, I thanked him for his time and let him go on with his day.