How To Build A Shark

Amateur artist and Great White shark enthusiast for over 4 decades, Drew Shourd always wanted to design and build his own beautiful beast - and he tells us how he did it!

For reference, Drew researched photos of Great Whites online and used a model he had to maintain accuracy.

Drew stacked EPS foam with silicone, drew a head on the sides and top, carved it out with a hot wire tool.

Drew used expanded polystyrene silicone as the main material as it was easy to come by (he had some and a neighbour even donated some from the left over packing from a new shed).

A lot of sanding...a lot of detailing...several coats of plaster, more sanding. Then a few coats of base paint, final painting, made the teeth from polymer clay by hand...final paint and detailing then several clear coats to add gloss and protection. In total, the project took about 6 weeks - and it was totally worth it!

Drew, who is currently working on a 4.5 ft full replica says “I am no professional but make up for it in passion.” We cannot wait to see the finished piece, Drew!

Images via Drew Shourd

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Joe Alves: Designing JAWS 

Providing the production designer's view into the development of this world-renowned film. Included are Joe's stunning pre-production illustrations; handwritten location and production notes; on-set photographs; blueprints of the shark's design; and first-time publication of his complete catalog of storyboards. Joe Alves: Designing JAWS is a must-have addition to every film reference library.