About Us

Scenic Art and Casting Studio of New Orleans is a design and fabrication studio comprised of professional artists and technicians with extensive backgrounds in film, television, theater, and events. We specialize in creating high-quality scenic elements, custom props, and immersive installations for clients. Whether you're looking for a custom prop or an immersive world for your home or business, we love bringing bold new ideas to life.

SACSNO caters to clients across the country. We continue to push the limits by exploring cutting-edge materials and techniques, and our lead artists teach mold making, painting, and specialized craft classes in New Orleans at IATSE Local 478. You can see our work on the big screen as well as in businesses and private residences across the U.S.

Meet the Artists Behind the Magic

David Whatley, Co-founder and Lead Artist

David Whatley is a master craftsman in the film and television industry, with over 50 credits since 2007 on major studio features and television productions. He specializes in Scenic Painting, Sculpture, Plastering, and Mold Making, bringing a high level of technical artistry and creative problem-solving to each project. Since 2020, David has also served as a trainer for IATSE Local 478, where he shares his skills and encourages a philosophy grounded in artistic collaboration and inclusion. His leadership and craftsmanship have shaped the visual worlds of recent blockbuster films like Sinners, The Nickel Boys, Maze Runner, Interview with the Vampire: Season 1, and Logan. When not on set, David channels his creativity into building wild contraptions for the nerdy fandom krewe, Chewbacchus.

​Simonette Berry , Co-founder and Lead Artist

A classically trained artist and writer from New Orleans, Simonette's range of expertise includes production management, mold-making, murals, decorative finishes, and design. She has contributed to major productions like Maze Runner, Terminator: Genisys, and Into the Badlands: Season 1. Later in her career, she co-produced and designed the award-winning documentary City of a Million Dreams, which explores the history of jazz funerals in New Orleans. In her spare time, she runs a carnival Krewe of 3,000+ intergalactic nerds called Chewbacchus. 

Ashley Pridmore, Lead Artist

A sculptor and mixed-media artist, Ashley’s expertise in form and texture enhances every project. She has been an artist-in-residence in Germany and a Civic Arts Fellow in New Orleans. Her film credits include Interview with the Vampire: Season 1, Pink Marine, and Mayfair Witches, where she worked on a special team that created an elaborate miniature set. She is highly skilled in project management, sculpture installation, moldmaking, welding, and intricate detail and texture work.