In the realm of set design, where artistry meets immersive storytelling, few names are rising as swiftly as Maris Jones. A Brooklyn-based visual artist, Jones has carved out a distinct niche in the creative industry, bringing bold, imaginative, and visually stunning environments to life. Best known for her work with the acclaimed pop artist Chappell Roan, Jones’ set designs have played a significant role in shaping the singer’s otherworldly, theatrical, and nostalgic stage presence.

Recently, Architectural Digest (AD) took an exclusive deep dive into Jones’ creative space and process, offering a closer look at her inspirations, artistic journey, and the evolution of her work. From her early influences in a family of artists to her groundbreaking set designs for Roan’s performances, this feature provides an in-depth exploration of Jones’ creative genius.

Let’s uncover the story of Maris Jones—her background, inspirations, and how she’s revolutionizing modern set design through her distinctive blend of colors, textures, and immersive aesthetics.

Early Beginnings: Growing Up in an Artistic Family

Maris Jones’ journey into the world of art and design was shaped by her upbringing in a family of artists. Surrounded by creativity from a young age, she was exposed to various forms of artistic expression, from painting and sculpture to theater and photography. This artistic foundation nurtured her natural inclination toward visual storytelling, encouraging her to explore different mediums and develop her own aesthetic.

Her early exposure to stage design, film, and interactive art set the stage for her eventual career as a set designer. As she honed her skills, she developed an eye for bold, unconventional compositions—a signature that would later define her work.

Pursuing a Career in Set Design

Unlike many traditional set designers who work exclusively in film or theater, Jones ventured into the music industry, where her ability to craft immersive, emotionally charged visual worlds found its perfect canvas. Her talent quickly gained recognition, and she started designing sets for music videos, live performances, and artistic collaborations, eventually leading to her work with Chappell Roan.

Crafting Iconic Stage Designs for a Rising Pop Star

Chappell Roan, known for her campy, theatrical, and visually elaborate performances, has become one of pop music’s most exciting new artists. Her aesthetic is a blend of ’70s disco, vintage Hollywood glam, and surreal dreamscapes—a perfect match for Maris Jones’ imaginative set designs.

Jones has played a pivotal role in bringing Roan’s visual identity to life, creating sets that feel like immersive dream worlds. One of her most celebrated designs, the “Red Wine Supernova” set, exemplifies her signature use of vibrant color palettes, rich textures, and dynamic compositions.

The “Red Wine Supernova” Set: A Perfect Blend of Art and Performance

The “Red Wine Supernova” stage design, which became an instant fan favorite, showcases Jones’ ability to translate music into a visual spectacle. This set features:

• Bold red and deep wine tones, evoking a sense of passion and mystery.

• Dramatic lighting arrangements, amplifying the emotional depth of Roan’s performance.

• Vintage-inspired props and backdrops, capturing Roan’s signature nostalgic-meets-modern aesthetic.

The success of this set cemented Jones’ reputation as a leading creative force in music-based set design.

Creating an Immersive Experience

One of Jones’ biggest strengths is her ability to design spaces that do more than just look beautiful—they tell a story. Whether working on a music video or a live tour, her goal is always to create an environment that fully immerses the audience in the artist’s world.

She achieves this by integrating:

• Layered textures and fabrics for depth.

• Custom-built props and furniture to create a specific mood.

• Lighting design that enhances the emotional tone of the performance.

Her sets are not just backgrounds; they are living, breathing extensions of the music itself.

Inside Maris Jones’ Creative Process

Architectural Digest Feature: A Glimpse Into Her Studio

In her recent Architectural Digest (AD) interview, Jones offered a rare glimpse into her Brooklyn studio, the space where her ideas take shape. The interview highlighted several key aspects of her creative process:

Mood Boards & Concept Sketching

• Jones begins each project by gathering inspiration from classic films, historical art movements, and everyday textures.

• Her mood boards include references from old Hollywood sets, Renaissance paintings, and avant-garde fashion.

Experimentation with Color and Lighting

• A defining feature of her work is her mastery of color theory.

• She often tests different lighting setups to see how colors interact in various conditions.

Handcrafted Set Pieces & Props

• Unlike many modern designers who rely heavily on digital elements, Jones often handcrafts props and backdrops, adding an authentic, tactile quality to her work.

Connection with Artists & Musicians

• Jones emphasizes the importance of collaborating closely with performers to ensure that the set enhances, rather than overshadows, the music.

The Impact of Maris Jones on Modern Set Design

Revolutionizing Stage Aesthetics

Jones’ work represents a new era of set design, where immersive storytelling and bold visuals take center stage. Her approach blends:

• Theatrical grandeur with modern minimalism

• Nostalgic influences with futuristic elements

• Traditional craftsmanship with digital innovation

This fusion makes her designs timeless yet forward-thinking, setting her apart in the industry.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Designers

As her work continues to gain recognition, Jones is inspiring a new wave of set designers, visual artists, and creative directors. Her ability to blur the lines between art, music, and theater showcases the endless possibilities within stage and set design.

What’s Next for Maris Jones?

With her rising influence in the creative world, what’s next for Maris Jones?

• Expanding Beyond Music: While her work in the music industry is celebrated, she has expressed interest in working on film sets, immersive theater, and large-scale art installations.

• Collaborations with Fashion & Art Brands: Given her strong visual identity, she is a perfect fit for high-fashion campaigns and gallery exhibits.

• Bringing Set Design to New Digital Platforms: With the growing demand for virtual performances and AR-enhanced stage designs, Jones is poised to be at the forefront of this movement.

Impression

Maris Jones is more than just a set designer—she’s a visionary artist who transforms spaces into mesmerizing, immersive experiences. Whether designing for Chappell Roan’s stage performances or conceptualizing innovative set designs, her work pushes the boundaries of creativity in the music industry and beyond.

With her unparalleled artistic eye, bold imagination, and deep understanding of visual storytelling, she is set to become one of the most influential set designers of her generation. As her career continues to evolve, there is no doubt that her captivating designs will continue to redefine the intersection of music, theater, and visual art.

For a deeper dive into her world, check out Architectural Digest’s exclusive feature on Maris Jones, where she shares insights into her creative journey, inspirations, and future projects.

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