This class takes place at my studio and is presented in partnership with Morbid Anatomy! Tickets and more info here .
In this beginners class, students will learn everything about basic moth/butterfly/winged insect preparation. We will discuss harvesting and drying specimen, rehydrating dried specimen, and in class we will practice handling techniques, spreading, mounting, the nuances of posing, display, and maintenance. Students will learn how to put together and maintain their own rehydration chamber, things to check for during all stages of the process to ensure a clean and successful end product, and tips for gentle handling. Students will also build their very own spreading boards for use in class and beyond. We will also cover how to select archival quality materials to maintain specimen integrity.
For the sake of consistency and ease, all students will be provided the same species to work with in class (Sunset Moth) but will be have the opportunity to select a take home specimen from an assortment of butteries or moths for independent practice.
After pinning their own specimen, students will make a glass dome display using a pre-prepared Sunset Moth, and a selection of rocks, branches, moss, foliage, and other naturalistic organic matter. We will discuss methods for preserving plants, and the appropriate adhesives and methods for mounting.
As always, all specimens are legally and sustainably sourced. We will be reviewing the origins of the assorted insects used in this class, how students can safely source their own specimens, and suggested, reputable suppliers.
Students go home with the following:
A glass dome display of their own design with a Sunset Moth
Their own prepared Sunset Moth on a spreading board, both can be used for future projects
A dried specimen to practice on at home
The knowledge to create their own pieces in the future!
Tickets and more info here https://www.morbidanatomy.org/classes/in-person-sunset-moth-dome-class-with-taxidermist-divya-anantharaman-on-november-20th