At Smash Design, we love a challenge that allows us to flex our creative muscles and push the boundaries of what’s possible in stage design. So, when renowned artwork and design company Art Heavy gave us the opportunity to create a larger-than-life setpiece for No. 1 selling musical artist Jelly Roll, we knew we had to create something that would be unforgettable for every fan who saw it. After all, Jelly Roll is BIG in every way!
We worked closely with Art Heavy to produce a phantasmagoric setpiece that owes as much to Spinal Tap as it does to Scarface. Following brand guidelines closely, we turned the singer’s City Skull design into a giant 3D prop that perfectly (dis)embodies his music.
Sculpting a Skull Fit for a King
Jelly Roll’s iconic City Skull design served as the inspiration for this massive decoration in the singer’s bar and music venue, Jelly Roll’s Goodnight Nashville. The vision was clear: a colossal skull wearing a crown of skyscrapers, with tears of gold staining its face. This striking image would be suspended from above from a truss, creating a dramatic focal point for the performance.
The City Skull design holds a special place in Jelly Roll’s artistic identity, and we wanted to do it justice by bringing it to life in a way that would captivate crowds and make his Nashville nightclub uniquely unforgettable. We were hired to craft a set piece that was more than just another prop—it needed to be a statement piece that would leave a lasting impression.
Sculpting the Skull: From Foam to Finished Product
Our talented team of artists began work bringing the City Skull to life with a digital 3D rendering of the final piece. Then, the skull was meticulously sculpted out of foam using CNC machines, allowing us to capture every intricate detail of the design. Next, it was sanded and finished by hand. From the contours of the skull’s features to the texture of the crown, no detail was overlooked.
Sculpting a piece of this size required precision, patience, and a keen eye for detail. Our team worked tirelessly to ensure that every curve and crevice was just right, creating a realistic and imposing memento mori.
Once the sculpting was complete, the skull underwent a hard-coating process to ensure durability and longevity. We knew that this setpiece would be subjected to the rigors of countless live performances.
To achieve the desired aesthetic, the skull was finished with a sleek automotive paint job. The glossy black finish provided a striking contrast to the golden accents of the crown and tears. The tears, in particular, were a crucial element of the design, symbolizing the raw emotion and authenticity that Jelly Roll brings to his songs.
Illuminating the Eyes: A Cross-Section of Light
No skull would be complete without a haunting gaze, so the eyes of this sculpture truly mesmerizing. We incorporated cross-shaped lighting effects into the eye sockets, adding an eerie and captivating element to the overall design.
Integrating electronic lighting elements into the skull’s eyes was a technical challenge that required careful planning and execution. Our team worked with Art Heavy to ensure that the cross-shaped effects would be visible and impactful from every angle of the venue.
When the bar lights go down, the eyes of the skull come alive, casting an otherworldly glow over the venue. It’s a sight that leaves patrons in awe and adds an unforgettable visual impact to Jelly Roll’s home base. Those illuminated eyes become have become a focal point, drawing people into the emotion and intensity of Jelly Roll’s music.
A Collaborative Effort: Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
Creating a stage prop of this magnitude required a seasoned team. From the initial concept to the final installation, every member of our crew played a crucial role in bringing the City Skull to life.
Our designers worked closely with Art Heavy to ensure that the set piece aligned with Jelly Roll’s artistic vision for his new honky tonk. Through a collaborative process, we fine-tuned every aspect of the design until it met the high standards set by all parties.
The fabrication process was a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of our team. From the sculptors who brought the skull to life to the painters who added the finishing touches, each individual contributed their expertise to create a truly remarkable piece.
Testing and Installation: Ensuring a Flawless Performance
Before the City Skull could debut on stage, it had to undergo rigorous testing to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. Our team conducted thorough checks to verify that the skull could withstand transportation and being suspended from the ceiling, and that the lighting effects worked flawlessly.
The installation was a carefully choreographed dance, requiring precision and attention to detail. We worked with the Goodnight Nashville team to rig the skull safely and integrate it seamlessly into the bar decor.
Seeing the City Skull suspended above the bar, ready to captivate audiences, was a moment of pride for our entire team. It represented the culmination of countless hours of hard work, creativity, and collaboration. Also, it’s just amazing to see your work associated with a massive artist like Jelly Roll, enjoyed by a huge crowd!
What Can We Build for You?
Are you a hospitality designer, production manager, art director, or event coordinator looking to make a lasting visual impact with your brand? Smash Design can be your secret weapon for creating unforgettable experiences. With our cutting-edge designs, meticulous attention to detail, and unparalleled creativity, we can bring any vision to life. From captivating stage props to permanent installations, Smash Design always delivers results that exceed expectations. Don’t settle for ordinary—choose Smash Design and let us transform your next project into an Instagram-worthy spectacle. Contact us today to start thinking BIG!