That really isn’t the same without being there.” “The ability to communicate the science of materials and chemistry in an accessible way also makes it easier for me to be an expert in this new format, rather than as one of the field archaeological team which is where I began. The producer of the series has put together a cast of original and new faces, and my role as the team’s archaeological conservator is a better fit for the new format working with the finds specialists in the UK to reveal important information on vulnerable artefacts excavated, and advise on their analysis options and care. The internet worm holds no bounds in the sharing of knowledge.

“However, like lots of projects or jobs these days, reaching out across the globe to other experts has become common practice to plan, discuss and interpret. You need the trowel and spade in hand,” says Brigid. “Nothing beats being on an excavation, being part of the discoveries, seeing it with your own eyes and piecing it all together. What’s remarkable is that this work – central to the success of the excavation and the TV programme – will take place with Brigid and Raysan on the other side of the world from where the archaeological action is taking place. The reconstructions are so sophisticated and detailed, the images enable archaeological theories to be tested and to visualise what the archaeologist interprets – and determine whether the theories are viable. Raysan meanwhile will develop some of the all-important digital graphics that help the audience visualise clearly the features found by the archaeological team.īesides providing graphic interpretation, Raysan’s work also allows him to take the raw information, like laser scans and other data, to develop reconstructions of the discoveries, such as the villa itself. The duo, working within the wider Time Team whānau, will play a key role in the work of the excavation as it unfolds on September 23-26.īrigid – who for seven years featured in the much-loved British TV series that celebrates all things archaeological – will provide her expertise as a conservator, offering insights into the intriguing finds expected to be unearthed.ĭue to current travel restrictions she is unable to be present onsite as an archaeologist – and because it is not feasible to lead an excavation remotely she is instead focusing on conservation and investigative work to learn about the artefacts that are found, and stabilise them. The estate is the seat of the Fiennes family. Waihi Beach-based archaeologist and conservator Brigid Gallagher – together with partner Raysan Al-Kubaisi, who is an architect, buildings adviser and head of graphics creating some of the programme’s 3D reconstructions and animations – are take part in an excavation, virtually, of a Roman villa site at Broughton Estate, Oxfordshire, this week. The Bay of Plenty is going live to the world on a special online version of Time Team.

Can you dig with spade in tool belt