About the Story

CBS Sunday Morning explores the preservation of historic Hollywood backdrops and the artists who created some of the largest paintings ever made for motion pictures. Correspondent John Blackstone follows scenic artist and curator Karen Maness, Lynne Coakley of J.C. Backings, production designer Thomas A. Walsh, and journalist Mary McNamara as they discuss the importance of preserving these monumental works.

The story explains how painted backdrops shaped the worlds of classic films including The Wizard of Oz, The Sound of Music, North by Northwest, Ben-Hur, Singin’ in the Rain, Forbidden Planet, and The Fountainhead. Although audiences rarely noticed them, scenic artists created environments that became an essential part of Hollywood filmmaking.

Preserving Scenic Art

The feature also follows the work of the Backdrop Recovery Project, which has cataloged and preserved hundreds of historic backdrops that studios once planned to discard. In addition, it highlights the role of Texas Performing Arts and The University of Texas at Austin, where students study original Hollywood backdrops as part of scenic art education.

Throughout the story, Karen Maness, Thomas A. Walsh, and Lynne Coakley describe why these paintings deserve recognition as both works of art and important pieces of film history. As a result, the collection continues to serve filmmakers, museums, researchers, and students.

Watch the CBS Sunday Morning Story

Watch the complete CBS Sunday Morning feature to learn how historic Hollywood backdrops continue to inspire new generations while preserving the craftsmanship behind Hollywood’s Golden Age.

You can also explore the Hollywood Backdrop Collection to learn more about the scenic artists, preserved backdrops, and the ongoing work of the Backdrop Recovery Project.