Taylor Studios, Inc. Adds Life to an Exhibit at the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park.

For immediate release: March 16th, 2010

Rantoul-IL - Taylor Studios, Inc. began working with California State Parks to design and fabricate a new exhibit at the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park in 2008. While the exhibit opened in the summer of 2009, Taylor Studios just finished fabricating several life cast figures that give life to the scene. In one area, a Native American woman was depicted grinding acorns with her daughter beside her making baskets and a baby wrapped tightly in a papoose. A Native American boy was also created, kneeling on a rock beside the waterfall with a freshly speared fish.

The exhibit featured a realistic diorama representing the spring time terrain of the Coloma Valley with scenes of Sierra Foothill Indian’s daily life. A ground form was enhanced by a running waterfall, beautifully fabricated trees and native plants, a cedar house, and an acorn granary. Taylor Studios sought input from the local Native American communities throughout the process, listening to their oral histories and asking them to review interpretive materials for the exhibit. The entire diorama served as a backdrop for an object theater. Documentary clips were projected onto the setting, complete with music and audio. The synchronization of 2D and 3D elements created a deep and engaging experience.

When asked about the project, Elise Riehle, the project manager who oversaw the creation of the life caste figures, said, “Our staff is really excited to see the life cast figures installed! The figures were completed in February; they bring new life to the exhibit we installed last year. The faces were sculpted after modern day Native American children, and the clothing is modeled after authentic garments. The new additions help complete the story the exhibit tells to each visitor.”

Founded in 1991 and located in Rantoul, IL, Taylor Studios has been collaborating on exhibits for visitor centers, museums, nature centers, and zoos and is known for their quality and attention to detail. Their experience encompasses immersive environments, outdoor signage, scenic work, interactives, models, murals, and dioramas. In 2000, Inc. Magazine named Taylor Studios among the 500 fastest growing companies in America. In 2007, they were listed among the 5000 fastest growing companies. This growth can be attributed to their outstanding quality and their ability to complete projects on time and within budget.