Student association involvement · IMT Mines Alès · 2024
Decor Manager for the 97th Gala
Introduction and Concept
The Gala des Mines d'Alès is one of the school's most prestigious events, wrapping up graduation day in a festive and elegant atmosphere. For its 97th edition, more than 1,000 guests attended, with a global budget exceeding €140,000. As decor manager, I had the opportunity to design and build one of the highlights of the evening: the photo booth, themed around 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, inspired by Jules Verne's famous novel.
For this project, I imagined a shipwreck broken in two, resting on a rock at the bottom of the ocean. The idea was to create an immersive, spectacular scene that evokes underwater exploration. This choice also had a logistical advantage: it allowed us to recycle the wood from the previous year's decor (a Venetian gondola). I started by searching for inspiration images, then sketched and modeled the shipwreck in 3D.
Modeling Objectives and Construction
The 3D model served several purposes: obtaining precise blueprints for construction, estimating the total weight of the structure, calculating the number of battens needed, and determining the surface area to be fireproofed to comply with safety standards. Once the model was validated, I exported the structure to 3D print it, which allowed me to visualize the proportions and have a scale physical prototype.
The construction phase began with cutting the battens to exact dimensions, optimizing wood scraps to limit waste. I then assembled the shipwreck's skeleton, starting with the frames (transverse structures perpendicular to the length of the boat), then the ribbands (longitudinal battens) to connect everything. This framework was then covered with boards salvaged from pallets, which I disassembled and nailed one by one to give the shipwreck its final look.
Staging and Final Result
To stage the wreck, I built an elevated wooden base, giving each half the desired tilt, as if it had broken on a rock. The base was covered with a textured grey sheet to simulate underwater rock. The final result offered an immersive, photogenic decor consistent with the theme, while emphasizing materials reuse and a rigorous technical approach.
This project allowed me to mobilize a variety of skills: project management, 3D modeling, logistical optimization, woodworking, and above all, creativity. It was also an opportunity to collaborate with other Gala teams, coordinate deliveries and installations, and manage last-minute contingencies. An intense, demanding, but deeply rewarding experience.
