Underwater Exhibit Goes Over the Top

Shedd Aquarium contacted Bridgewater Studio with an idea for an octopus-themed bus shelter designed to promote the Museum Campus in Chicago.

First, we surveyed the existing bus stop to obtain precise dimensions. Then, we used the architectural information to redesign their 2D sketch into a fully-visualized 3D model with realistic proportions.

Next, we sculpted the octopus and accompanying aquatic life to the exact dimensions of the shelter. With the parts sculpted, we used CNC-engineering to make the parts easily fit together. The octopus was built using CNC foam services that were sculpted, hard-coated, textured and painted. The smaller ocean critters were detailed with 3D printing, followed by painting and finishing services. The entire process took place in our studio.

An initial art installation phase occurred at two separate locations under the planned supervision of property owner JC Decaux, at which point the assembled bus shelter was permanently installed at Shedd Aquarium.