In this class, we will learn about the fascinating anatomy of mammals and traditional mammal taxidermy. This class is designed for beginners with an interest in taxidermy. No matter the experience level, all are welcome! Please click on the image to see more examples of student work from this class.
Students will learn everything they need to create their very own rabbit taxidermy shoulder mount, from proper skinning, degreasing/washing, to sculpting, mounting, and finishing. Students will watch a skinning and fleshing demonstration, and proceed to work with professionally cleaned and tanned skins. This will allow the students to focus on the finer details of creating a finished piece, and practice specific mounting techniques, like carving, fitting, and modifying a form, sewing, assembly, and grooming. Since we will be working on shoulder mounts, the class will put extra focus on the facial features, including the ears and using earliners. We will discuss how to use reference and study anatomy practically for taxidermy.
Our subject will be the domestic rabbit. Unlike wild rabbits, their smaller size and hardiness makes them suitable for beginners. These adorable mammals are lovely subjects for taxidermy, as many people have encountered them, and they can be posed naturalistically or anthropomorphically, depending on your preference. These rabbits are legally and sustainably sourced, no animals are harmed for the sake of taxidermy.
Students will go home with their custom-made creations (a rabbit taxidermy shoulder mount on a wood plaque) instructions for maintaining their pieces, and newfound or nourished love of taxidermy.
About the instructor-
A unique combination of science and style, Divya Anantharaman is an award winning licensed professional preserving animals with honor and compassion for clients ranging from museums, designers, collectors, and everyday naturalists. Her specialties are birds, small mammals, and anatomic anomalies, with a select number of commissions open for pets. Her work seeks to combine the demonstrative aspect of scientific presentation with the symbolic, introspective nature of art, using taxidermy to engage diverse audiences with conservation. She is passionately curious about the untapped potential of this scientific art, and sharing it with others. Her classes seek to demystify the taxidermy process, and make the field more accessible and engaging. She has recently starred in the award winning documentary short, "Rearranging Skin". In her commitment to conservation, she regularly volunteers with various ornithological organizations (such as the Audubon Society). You can learn more at https://www.gothamtaxidermy.com/
CLASS POLICIES - PLEASE READ
Please note this studio is located in a 3 floor walk-up building in Brooklyn NYC. Exact address will be in the confirmation email sent when ticket is purchased. Please check your spam folder if you do not see this email.
This is a working taxidermy studio located in a building shared with other artists, please be respectful.
All attendees are asked to be respectful of each others boundaries, including wearing masks based on community spread and personal accommodation.
For your safety and to accommodate studio policy, no food, drink, or gum in class. Drinks in a container with a lid are ok! Students can take as many breaks needed to step outside of class for food and drink.
To enter building, please meet in front of building at 10:50 am or contact instructor at 828-668-2566 if you are running late.
All specimens legally and sustainably sourced, no animals are harmed for the sake of taxidermy workshops.
By signing up for class, you recognize the risks associated with a taxidermy class-working with sharp tools and practicing safe specimen handling. You agree to follow the instructors advice, and will not hold the instructor or venue liable for harm.
All students must be over 18 unless otherwise arranged for. Please email the instructor to discuss.
Please feel free to bring your own props, adornments, or items for your mount. Please do not bring your own raw specimens to the class.
Please note, there are no refunds unless the instructor reschedules or cancels the class. Once you purchase your ticket, your specimens, forms, and other materials are ordered and prepared. If you are unable to attend, you can transfer your ticket to a future class date. Please contact the instructor to make arrangements if you are unable to attend class