The Chosen TV Series Set

Objectives

The Chosen is the first multi-season TV show depicting the life of Jesus set in Judea and Galilee in the first-century. The designers, installers and post-installation artists had to figure out how to turn a manufactured, modern product into something that resembles first-century architecture. During the first-century there were no large automated tools to cut or move stone everything was cut and placed by hand. This meant a lack of uniformity in the size and shape of stone where buildings were constructed, with different textures and materials based on what could be found around the area.

Solutions

There was a lengthy wait time on various materials causing an issue on set. Because of this, the show made the decision to increase the number of MSV used throughout the project. Texas Stone was able to produce more stone at a faster rate compared to other material manufacturers. The designers and installation teams completed construction within their time frame and met their production schedule because of how quickly MSV can be installed.

Results

The Chosen TV series achieved outstanding success with the set hailed as the most realistic first-century set in America, much to the delight of the production team. By utilizing Texas Stone’s MSV and applying a post-installation black wash, the designers and installation teams completely transformed modern products into an authentic representation of first-century architecture. 

Team & Location

Designer: Jeff Stabler, Art Director and Production Designer, James Cunningham
Producer: Texas Stone Designs
Installer: HTX Dirt, owned by John Hart Multiple masons worked on the install.
Project Location: Arlington, TX