Role Description: 3D Modeling and Animation of Stonehenge Construction, Video Editing.
Project: Stonehenge: How They Built It, National Geographic, 2022.
My Role: 3D Modeler and Animator, Video Editor.

3D Modeling:
A precise digital reconstruction of Stonehenge was created, including the stones, surrounding landscape, and stone circles. Historical data and the project manager’s sketches guided the modeling process to maintain accuracy.

Developed a detailed 3D model of Stonehenge and animated its construction process, illustrating the evolution from its initial stages to the present day. The project aimed to visually demonstrate how ancient Britons transported and assembled massive stones using simple tools. Accuracy and consistency with historical references were ensured through materials provided by researchers, as well as the project manager’s vision and sketches.

Animation of Stonehenge Construction:
The construction process was animated, depicting how the stones were transported and erected using ancient techniques. The animations followed the project’s creative direction, aligning with historical interpretations.

Character Animation:
Ancient builders were rigged and animated to illustrate the transportation and positioning of the stones. These animations, developed under the manager’s guidance, brought the historical process to life.

Final Project View

Fernando G. Baptista, Lawson Parker, Ronald Paniagua, Ryan Morris, Matthew W. Chwastyk, Eve Conant, Kennedy Elliott, Brian T. Jacobs, and Ben Scott, NGM Staff
Based on models from English Heritage.

Sources: Susan Greaney, English Heritage; Mike Pitts, British Archaeology; Mike Parker Pearson, UCL Institute of Archaeology; Historic England; UNESCO.

This story appears in the August 2022 issue of National Geographic magazine.