Color-Ad, Inc.

Here’s a look at our production progress for Three Lakes Nature Center in Richmond, Virginia—an osteological replica of a woolly mammoth skull cast from an actual specimen discovered in Alaska.

Our mount maker met with project manager to plan the assembly and mounting of the skull. The primary focus for this installation was safety—ensuring the mount would support the replica while maintaining a visually minimal presence to preserve the impact of the display. A couple of challenges included the weight of the cast and the need for reinforcement systems. Our mount maker consulted with our woodshop and CNC experts to develop a mechanical fastening solution, which has been implemented and brings us one step closer to having the mammoth skull ready for installation.

Our mount maker is now finalizing a kit with materials, photos, and instructions for the team to use during the upcoming installation. As she continues her work, she notes that every exhibit project is one-of-a-kind and presents its own unique challenges. She also shares that Color-Ad’s diverse catalog of knowledge allows the team to support one another in finding the best solutions for our clients.

Thanks to the work of our mount maker, project manager, and installation team, this replica will soon be on display alongside other fossil models in a gallery focused on Virginia’s ancient past.