The earliest known reptiles are thought to have originated 312 million years ago. In 13th century Europe, Vincent of Beauvais writes in his Mirror of Nature, describing them as a miscellany of egg-laying creatures, including "snakes, various fantastic monsters, lizards, assorted amphibians, and worms". Today, we marvel at these scaled creatures as beautiful, ancient, and uncanny.

In this edition of The Splendid Scalpel, herpetologist Chelsea Connor will share her scientific knowledge about reptiles, and taxidermy artist Emily Binard will share how taxidermists create cast and create realistic reptile replicas with casting, sculpting, and painting techniques! Divya Anantharaman will moderate the meeting of these brilliant minds!

We will engage in the artistic, practical, and scientific aspects of herpetology. Chelsea, Emily, and Divya will be able to answer questions about reptiles, reptile taxidermy, and how the arts and sciences can harmonize to further our shared goal, conservation.

In the spirit of inclusivity, tickets are pay what you wish and are available here

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-splendid-scalpel-reptiles-tickets-223602490067