Baltimore Butterfly Preservation class - Sept 22

Please note this class takes place at BAZAAR BALTIMORE. 3534 Chestnut Ave, Baltimore, MD 21211

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 also 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.

Click on “QUICK VIEW” to see more examples of student work from this class.

NEW—CLASS PAYMENT PLANS! Use code PAYMENTPLAN at checkout. This takes 50% off of the class price today! You must pay the 50% balance due day of class (PayPal, Credit or Debit card, Cash, or CashApp all accepted for balance due).

 For the sake of consistency and ease, all students will be provided the same species to work with in class (Sunset Moth or King Thomas Butterfly) 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 get instruction on making a shadowbox display, including discussion on methods for preserving plants, and the appropriate adhesives and methods for mounting. Students will go home with a shadowbox that will accommodate their butterfly or moth.

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 will go home with their custom-made creations (a butterfly or moth on a reusable spreading board), a shadowbox, an extra butterfly for practice, 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 class takes place at BAZAAR BALTIMORE. Information about the venue, policies, and other location details can be found on their website - https://www.bazaarbaltimore.com/

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, 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 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