Diane O'Connell
From FIDM To the Emmy's

From the set of Ally McBeal

What do Ally McBeal, The Emmy's, and FIDM have in common? Just ask FIDM Alumna Diane O'Connell because she's been a part of them all. Since graduating from FIDM in 1980, Diane has gone on to be a successful set decorator for TV's The Nanny and Sisters. She is currently working on the set of Ally McBeal where she achieved her most recent accomplishment, an Emmy nomination in the category for Best Art Direction.

From the set of The Nanny

As a set decorator, it is Diane's job to create an environment that defines each character. She produces a set that gives the viewing audience a descriptive look into a character's life. Her attention to detail encompasses large props, such as furniture and appliances, to things as small as the kind of pencil the characters write with. Everything used draws a picture for us so we can get in touch with who we see on the screen. Diane effectively achieves this by working closely with the cast and producers of the show.

From the set of The Nanny

From the set of Sisters

Diane credits her experience at FIDM with helping her build, and perfect, her portfolio which played an integral part in getting her started in the industry. Diane is a graduate of FIDM's 3rd Year Professional Designation Program and studied both commercial and residential interior design. Diane says that,"The Interior Design Department at FIDM gave a realistic idea of what opportunities there are." She looks back on the many unique experiences she had at FIDM including taking field trips to study the different aspects of interior design and being a part of the Pasadena Showcase House.

Diane loves her job and her future plans are to stay right where she is.

Please Note: The information contained herein was confirmed at the time of original publication