Senior Art Director (Project Based Role)

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Meow Wolf opens portals of possibility. Come as you are! 

We are individuals who inspire creativity in people's lives through art and exploration, so that our combined imaginations can transform the world we live in. We create immersive and interactive experiences that transport audiences into fantastic realms of story and exploration.  Our Vision is to be the world’s leading creative company, reimagining the paradigm of art and storytelling, to make a positive difference in the world.  

We share a strong commitment to Belonging through our values of: 

• Collaborative Creativity: We believe the act of creating together amplifies possibilities.

• Provocative Playfulness:  We celebrate the unexpected because it is the doorway to discovery.

• Outsiders Welcome: We are all outsiders at heart, and we create space for everyone to feel like they belong.

• Authentic Compassion: We are “kind punks” - supportive to each other and standing up for what we believe in.

• Audacious Courage: We have the courage to radically reinvent ourselves to push the boundaries of art.

If this all sounds like YOU, read on….

Job Description:

Job Disclosures:

Project Based Role: This is a project based role with an anticipated duration of 2+ years.

Location: Santa Fe, NM

Job Summary:

The Senior Art Director is a creative leader responsible for shaping and maintaining the overall visual style and experience of a project. Working closely with the Creative Director, Producers, and cross-functional teams, they translate conceptual ideas into clear direction for artists, production designers, scenic teams, and vendors. This includes mood, material, color, and imagery references that guide the look and feel of the work.

They lead the development of Design Guides, sketches, material selections, and color boards to clarify the vision and resolve design inconsistencies. They also collaborate with the Facilities team to ensure all finishes and show elements (e.g., wall colors, flooring, ceilings, blackout lines, etc.) are well-documented and coordinated for build readiness.

As a senior leader, they mentor other Art Directors on the project, fostering alignment, collaboration, and team growth.

Core Responsibilities:

• Define and communicate the visual direction of a project in collaboration with the Creative Director.

• Create and maintain design documentation that guides production and ensures design consistency.

• Translate creative concepts into material choices, color palettes, and visual references.

• Work closely with Production, Facilities, and Show teams to align on finishes and build details.

• Resolve aesthetic conflicts and maintain the creative vision across all phases of the project.

• Support and mentor Art Directors and creative team members.

• Act as a thought partner, problem solver, and decision-maker during creative reviews and project pivots.

• Ensure all project team members understand and are aligned with the creative vision and decision rationale.
   

What Success Looks Like:

• You’ve led projects from concept through delivery as a senior creative.

• You balance big-picture vision with attention to detail.

• Your creative direction elevates the guest experience and inspires your team.

• The team is aligned on the aesthetic goals, priorities, and reasoning behind key decisions.

• You provide clear, constructive feedback and keep the team moving forward.

• You stay calm, adaptable, and solutions-focused in the face of challenges (e.g., budget, R&D, or schedule constraints).

• You bring holistic, sensory-based thinking to every creative choice.

• Your presence and leadership a