Creating a Glamorous and Functional Oyster Shell for Cardi B’s "Up"
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LA Set Construction had the exciting opportunity to fabricate a custom oyster shell as part of the set design for Cardi B’s music video "Up." This stunning, oversized shell added an element of luxury and opulence, perfectly complementing the bold and glamorous aesthetic of Cardi B’s performance. Designed to be functional as well as visually striking, the oyster shell was large enough to accommodate multiple people and engineered to open and close seamlessly for dynamic shots throughout the video.
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Design and Fabrication

The client had a clear vision: a 16-foot-tall oyster shell that looked realistic and sophisticated, with metallic hues adding a layered, iridescent effect. To achieve this vision, our team at LA Set Construction used a combination of materials, balancing artistry with structural integrity.
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• High-Density Foam: The bulk of the shell was sculpted from high-density foam. While some sections were precisely cut using our CNC machine, other parts were meticulously hand-carved by our sculptors to achieve the natural curves and texture of an oyster shell. Each cut and crevice was carefully shaped to capture the lifelike details the client desired.
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• Metal Frame and Hinge System: To ensure the shell could open and close smoothly while remaining stable when fully erect at 16 feet, we integrated a custom metal hinge system. This framework provided both stability and functionality during filming.
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• Plywood Base: For safety and durability, a plywood base was installed, ensuring the shell could support multiple people during the shoot, including Cardi B, without compromising safety.
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Finishing Touches

The finishing details were essential to capturing the sophisticated metallic look requested by the client. Metallic paints were applied in layers, creating depth and a cold, elegant sheen that added visual interest on camera. The lighting team further enhanced the design, allowing the shell’s shimmering surface to reflect and complement the bold aesthetic of the music video.
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Conclusion

This custom oyster shell for Cardi B’s "Up" music video highlights LA Set Construction’s ability to combine artistry with engineering, producing both visually stunning and fully functional set pieces. From CNC precision cutting and hand-carved foam detailing to custom hinge systems and safe structural design, every element was crafted with care to meet the client’s exact specifications. The final product was not just a set piece, but an unforgettable visual element that added depth and luxury to the music video.
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