James D. Bissell

Jim Bissell, a distinguished alumnus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theater. His career began in the bustling environments of New York and Los Angeles, where he contributed to commercials and independent films. Bissell's talent was recognized in 1980 when he received an Emmy Award for his outstanding work on the television series Palmerstown, U.S.A. This accolade was followed by a BAFTA nomination for his innovative production design in Steven Spielberg's iconic film, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.

In addition to his accolades, Bissell played a significant role in the Art Directors Guild, serving as its inaugural chair for the prestigious Art Directors Guild Awards, and he also held the position of Vice President within the Guild. His commitment to education is reflected in his teaching roles at renowned institutions such as the American Film Institute (AFI), the University of Southern California (USC), UCLA Extension, and the North Carolina School of the Arts. A respected figure in the industry, Bissell is an active member of several professional organizations, including the Directors Guild of America (DGA), the Art Directors Guild (ADG), and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. His contributions to the field of production design and his influence as an educator continue to resonate within the film industry.