The art of making: Jay Pooley (BEDS’08, MArch’10)


Film set for Jägermeister, Kyiv, Ukraine 2019, production design by Jay Pooley
Production Designer
Jay’s passion for the both building and the arts blossomed while studying at the School of Architecture. In Halifax, Jay designed and built for theatre and concerts, including working as a stage hand for the Rolling Stones in 2006. Since graduation, he has used his architectural training and elevated his love of working in the performing arts to the next level. Post-graduation he worked as an IATSE (International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees) film carpenter building large feature film sets. Once he completed his journeyman carpenter apprenticeship, he started his career as a production designer for film and television. Jay is currently represented globally and has recently shot projects across Europe, western Canada and in Los Angeles.

Work in progress from 2018 Lululemon Mediation Pavilion. University of Toronto, Research Opportunity Program
Assistant Professor, University of Toronto

Production design for Canadian Olympics Committee, 2018
In the Media
Jay has spoken widely about the benefit of making, including this TED talk. His level of creativity and attention to details is evident in his production design work and can be viewed in the form of numerous commercials including work for the Canadian Olympic Committee in 2018. His research and teaching interests are are displayed on his studio website.