Please note this class takes place in TUCSON AZ at The Heathenry! Jan 20 2024
In this class, we will learn about the fascinating anatomy of birds and traditional bird taxidermy. This class is designed for beginners with an interest in bird taxidermy. No matter the experience level, all are welcome!
All photos are student work from this class.
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Students will learn everything they need to create their very own bird taxidermy 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 fleshed 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, grooming, and feathering. We will discuss how to use reference and study anatomy practically for taxidermy.
Our subject will be the European starling. Brought to Central Park by Shakespeare enthusiasts, they became prolific enough to outdo native birds, causing substantial destruction to wildlife and crops. However, their eye-catching plumage-glossy, spotted, and iridescent, brightens up our city. Their unwavering tenacity reflects a larger truth across species, making the best of a situation they’ve found themselves in. They are one of few birds that are not protected by the MBTA, and can be legally possessed by individuals as long as local laws are followed. These starlings are legally and sustainably sourced, no animals are harmed for the sake of taxidermy.
Students will go home with their custom-made creations (a starling taxidermy mount on a reusable temporary base) 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
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 class policy, absolutely NO gum or food of any kind in class. Drinks in a container with a lid are ok! Students can take as many breaks needed to step outside of class to eat.
All specimens legally and sustainably sourced, no animals are harmed for the sake of taxidermy.
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.
Purchasing this ticket means you have read and agree to all class policies.