Starting a creative career is exciting — and terrifying. The entertainment industry, with its flashing lights and endless possibilities, can feel overwhelming to those just stepping onto the stage. But for Shaun Greenwald, who built a thriving career as a scenic artist from the ground up, success isn’t about luck or connections. It’s about mindset, resilience, and smart preparation.
After decades of working behind the scenes on iconic sets for film, television, and theatre, Shaun shares his most valuable advice for those just starting their creative journey.
1. Your Attitude Will Open More Doors Than Your Portfolio
Yes, talent matters. But Shaun insists that attitude often matters more when you’re starting out.
“People can teach you skills. They can’t teach you how to be humble, hardworking, and positive.”
Directors, producers, and designers look for artists who are easy to work with, adaptable, and willing to learn. Shaun recommends that young creatives focus as much on being reliable, respectful, and enthusiastic as they do on showcasing their art.
2. Learn to Love the Early Struggles
Shaun’s early career wasn’t glamorous — it was filled with long hours, modest projects, and plenty of mistakes. But he believes those years were the most important.
“Every ‘small’ project taught me something essential about who I was and what kind of artist I wanted to become.”
He encourages newcomers to embrace the early struggles, not rush through them. Every odd job, every imperfect set, and every missed opportunity can sharpen your skills and toughen your spirit — if you let them.
3. Don’t Chase Fame—Chase Mastery
In a world where social media rewards visibility, Shaun offers a countercultural reminder:
“Fame is a side effect. Mastery is the goal.”
He advises young artists to focus less on going viral and more on getting really, really good at their craft. If you become excellent at what you do, recognition and opportunities will naturally follow.
4. Find Mentors, Not Idols
Shaun credits much of his growth to the mentors who challenged him, guided him, and sometimes corrected him.
“Idols will make you feel like you’re not enough. Mentors will make you better.”
He urges young artists to seek out mentors—people who will give honest feedback, open doors, and teach the realities of the industry. But don’t just admire from a distance; build relationships and stay teachable.
5. Stay Curious, Stay Current
While Shaun has deep respect for classic techniques, he never stopped learning. As new technologies and design methods emerged, he adapted.
“The industry changes every year. If you don’t change with it, you get left behind.”
He advises young artists to constantly explore new tools, materials, styles, and cultural movements. Curiosity keeps your work fresh and ensures your skills stay in demand.
6. Professionalism Beats Genius Every Time
Shaun emphasizes that meeting deadlines, communicating clearly, and following through are often what separate working artists from struggling ones.
“There are hundreds of geniuses who never get hired because no one wants to work with them. Be the one they can trust.”
No matter how talented you are, if you miss deadlines or create chaos on set, your opportunities will dry up fast. Professionalism builds a reputation—and reputation builds a career.
7. Protect Your Passion
The entertainment industry can be tough. Long hours, tough clients, creative compromises—all of it can wear down even the most passionate artist. Shaun’s advice?
“Don’t let the business kill your love for the art.”
He recommends finding personal projects that recharge your creative spirit. Whether it’s painting for yourself, building sets for local theatre, or simply sketching in your free time, protect your passion like it’s part of your survival kit.
Conclusion: Build the Career You Dream Of
Shaun Greenwald didn’t wait for permission to become a scenic artist. He showed up, worked hard, stayed humble, and kept growing—year after year. His advice to young artists today is simple but powerful:
“You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be persistent.”
The industry needs fresh voices, bold creators, and new storytellers. If you commit to your growth, embrace the challenges, and stay true to your passion, there’s a place for you—and a future brighter than you can imagine.
