A turtle icon had been incorporated into the exhibit panels for younger visitors, and it was decided a 3-D orientation model would be crafted to invite children to explore the exhibit. First, a small clay model was designed by Jeff Huber.
Jeff Gage photo

Next, Jeff Huber sculpted a full-size turtle using urethane foam. This stage took about two weeks.
Jeff Gage photo

The foam was then coated in fiberglass. It took four weeks of sanding and shaping by John Nash to get it smooth. Now, it was strong enough for a 200 lbs. man to stand on its arms!
Jeff Gage photo

Finally, the turtle was primed and painted with acrylics by Jeff Huber and Raymond Rawls. It was finished off with a layer of automotive clear coat for durability.
Jeff Gage photo

The finished turtle installed in the exhibit. A trapdoor was built into the base and filled with 250 lbs. of sand to prevent tipping.
Jeff Gage photo