Date: March 20, 2022
Admission: $150
Time: 12 pm - 3 pm
Class size: 4 students

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.

For the sake of consistency and ease, all students will be provided the same specimen to work with in class, but will be have the opportunity to select a take home specimen from an assortment of butteries or moths for independent practice.

Simple shadow boxes for finished pieces will be provided.

As always, all specimens are legally and sustainably sourced. We will be reviewing the origins of the assorted insects/arachnids used in this class, how students can safely source their own specimens, and suggested, reputable suppliers.

Students go home with their own prepared insect, a spreading board that can be used for future projects, a specimen to practice on at home, a display case for the finished piece, and the knowledge to create their own pieces in the future.

CLASS POLICIES

Vaccine policy: Students must present proof of vaccination (Card, Excelsior pass, or Covid Safe app and ID) in order to take this class. Seats will be as distanced as possible, and all attendees are asked to be respectful of others’ boundaries.

For your safety, no food, drink, or gum in class. Students are allowed to take as many breaks as needed outside of class for food and drink.

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.

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.

Location: Morbid Anatomy @ Industry City, 220 36th Street, Brooklyn NY 11232 - 4th Floor

PLEASE NOTE: This class is an IN PERSON class. Students will have to be masked and vaccinated to attend. Meeting point is 11:45 am inside the building, in front of Powerhouse Bookstore. The Morbid Anatomy Library is only accessible via a private elevator, so try not to be late, as everyone needs to get upstairs at the same time.

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. In her commitment to conservation, she regularly volunteers with various ornithological organizations (such as the Audubon Society). You can learn more at www.gothamtaxidermy.com.