“Arcadia” Tulpa / Gogolak Statuette (Replica)

Appearance: The X-Files, episode "Arcadia" (6ABX13), which premiered on the Fox network on March 7, 1999.

Known as: Tulpa, Tulpa Statue, Gogolak Statuette

Project completed: Final version in April 2025, but several test versions throughout 2024.

Item information: The statuette in episode “Arcadia” was found at Gene Gogolak’s residence by Mulder, who concludes that it’s directly tied to the Tibetan thoughtform known as a “Tulpa”, in this case summoned by Gogolak at some point in the past. This prop replica was a huge project that took over a year to complete.

I'm quite familiar with modeling mechanical parts among other things, whereas organic objects and sculpting in general is something I've had very little experience with. Attempting to create this myself didn't lead to adequate results. I needed to find someone who can do it right, and thankfully I did.

Therefore, all the credit for the 3D work goes to artist Dushko Barutovski, one of the most talented and professional people I have ever met. Done without any AI-assistance whatsoever, just pure talent and hard work. Click here to see Dushko’s impressive portfolio.

The effort that was put into this project, especially regarding the fine details, is really hard to describe. The wood-grain effect was also integrated into the actual 3D model. Lots of trial and error until getting everything right. The end result is this fabulous prop replica pictured below.

The actual physical object was manufactured by Dimitar Danailov, who also did a fantastic job. It was made from resin using Stereolithography (SLA). No filter was added on any of the photos below. They are all without post processing. A filter was only applied on the thumbnail image which leads to this gallery. The color of the prop replica also appears differently depending on light and background, which is of course natural.

Regarding dimensions and screen accuracy, Dushko and I had to rely on fuzzy stills from the episode, by pausing, brightening, analyzing, and comparing, over and over again. If the on-screen prop ever finds its way online, there will of course be some differences, especially on the back side (which is not visible on screen). Nonetheless, the replica definitely turned out fantastic. I also have a version without the wood-grain effect, completely smooth surface, which is beautiful too, but I find this one below much better.