One of the first tangible results of our renovation efforts at the National Shell Museum was the makeover of our Giant Squid model. The reduced-size replica of Architeuthis dux was hanging from the very tall ceiling of the Great Hall of Shells, probably too high for proper enjoyment, as visitors had to bend their necks to see the squid in its full glory.
The model was restored by exhibit designer Raymond Rawls, of Gainesville, Florida. Raymond repaired arms and tentacles, applied new coats of (more realistic) paint, and created a new pair of more true-to-life eyes. The model looks awesome in its new location, hanging from the ceiling over the Museum lobby, where it turns out to be very visible from both the ground floor and the mezzanine on the second floor. You won’t miss it when you come for a visit after we reopen!
