Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/1260659
Spring 2020 The Costume Designer 25 The People Presently, Shannon manages a team that builds the fan- tastical costumes on superhero television shows Black Lightning, The Boys, Doom Patrol, Titans and the recently released Stargirl. She has perhaps the most futuristic titles, "Supersuit Designer" on these shows, but perhaps "superde- signer" would be more apt as spearheading a Costume Department that handles such a staggering volume of work would crush a mere mortal. Working on so many shows simultaneously allows Shannon the opportunity to employ several crews that work in tandem year-round and makes her role as the leader all that much more vital. "It's defi- nitely intense and condensed. But I always say, and my team hears me say it on a daily basis, that I'm only as good as the company I keep. It would be silly to say I could do all this without the support of a wonderful team." Her staff is simi- larly effusive in their praise of Shannon as both a mentor and an example. Sarah Jeanne Mgeni, who shares an office with Shannon as her assistant specialty costumes designer, notes, "Our calendar is no joke with six shows to keep track of! Her ability to look at the task at hand and the people around her and assemble the right team is truly her superpower. The Professional is Personal By Gary Victor Foss She has always been supportive of people's strengths and encourages collaboration and evolution." When asked what it's like working with Shannon, you'll hear that meals are sacred. In an industry that thrives on hectic schedules and deadlines, Shannon feels it is vital to not just to take care of her staff, but to nurture them. "On a day-to-day basis, I feel like it's integral that the team hang out together, and what better way to do that than break bread? We work so many hours, and especially the way that my team functions year long, it's imperative to keep everyone healthy and happy." The staff sits down at a communal table. The lunch orders are set in different places to mix up the seating and give everyone a chance to interact. Jennifer Davis-Chen, Shannon's visual admin- istrator, started as a PA. The daily ritual of gathering her crew together to share meals fosters a sense of community. "This has always really resonated with me because it's a consistent everyday example of how Laura Jean genuinely cares about each and every member of her team like fam- ily," Davis-Chen says. "She champions having a healthy and balanced work environment that allows everyone to be effective and efficient." Concept art featuring Nafessa Williams as Thunder and Cress Williams as Black Lightning, by Alan Villanueva, China Anne McClain as Lightning by Gina DeDomenico