Creating a Digital Twin of the Spirit of Achievement Statue

In a unique collaboration with The Waldorf Astoria Hotel NY, AECOM Tishman and Cumming Group, MYND Workshop embarked on a project to 3D scan and recreate the Spirit of Achievement statue, a notable artwork by Nína Sæmundsson, originally adorning the entrance of the hotel. Employing a combination of LiDAR and photogrammetry techniques, we captured the intricate details of the statue, both to preserve its legacy and to aid in the replication process. The goal was to create a perfectly scaled digital twin, facilitating the fabrication of a replica to be placed in the sculptor's hometown in Iceland, celebrating her artistic legacy.

The Spirit of Achievement Statue above the Park Avenue Entrance to the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York

The Spirit of Achievement Statue above the Park Avenue Entrance to the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York

The process of 3D Scanning the Spirit of Achievement Statue

The process of 3D Scanning the Spirit of Achievement Statue using Photogrammetry

Initial Raw Mesh from Laser Scanning and Photogrammetry Scanning (before cleaning)

Initial Raw Mesh from Laser Scanning and Photogrammetry Scanning (top view, before cleaning)

Initial Raw Mesh from Laser Scanning and Photogrammetry Scanning (rear view, before cleaning)

Initial Raw Mesh from Laser Scanning and Photogrammetry Scanning (side view, before cleaning)

Initial Raw Mesh from Laser Scanning and Photogrammetry Scanning (front view, before cleaning)

The project presented unique challenges, particularly in capturing the fine details of the statue's complex wave shapes within a constrained timeframe. Our team meticulously processed the data, transitioning from dense point cloud formation to a refined polygonal mesh. This mesh then served as a base for crafting a detailed STEP file, ensuring that the replica would mirror the original's intricate details and textures. This digital twin not only served as a blueprint for the replica's creation but also stands as a testament to the fusion of historical preservation and modern digitization techniques.

3D Mesh Retopology of the Statue

Cleaned, retopologized NURBS model in STEP format of Spirit of Achievement Statue

Cleaned, retopologized NURBS model in STEP format of Spirit of Achievement Statue (detail)

Cleaned, retopologized NURBS model in STEP format of Spirit of Achievement Statue (dimensions)

Cleaned, retopologized NURBS model in STEP format of Spirit of Achievement Statue’s Base (dimensions)

The completed 3D replica of the Spirit of Achievement Statue at its new home in Hvolsvöllur, Iceland

Inauguration of the Spirit of Achievement Statue replica at its new home in Hvolsvöllur, Iceland

This collaboration highlights the pivotal role of 3D scanning and digital twin technology in the Historic Preservation industry, seamlessly bridging the gap between the tangible past and its digital preservation. The Spirit of Achievement project not only underscores the potential for replicating and preserving historical artifacts but also celebrates the intersection of art, technology, and heritage. The successful completion of this project, culminating in the consecration of the replica in Iceland, showcases MYND Workshop's commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to honor and preserve artistic achievements for future generations.

Learn more on the Untapped Cities website.

Learn more on The New York Times website.

Learn more on the Icelandic Region's website.

Learn more on the Government of Iceland’s website.