Date: April 17, 2022
Admission: $275
Time: 3 pm - 6 pm
Class size: 4 students

In this class, we will learn about the fascinating anatomy of birds and the oxidation process of skeleton cleaning. This class is designed for beginners with an interest in bird preservation. No matter the experience level, all are welcome!

Students will learn everything they need to create their very own bird skeleton display in a glass dome. Skeletons will be provided, and students will be able to pose them to their liking, and mount them onto bases. These bird skeletons have been cleaned using the oxidation process, which involves a series of chemical soaks, and manual cleaning, that leaves a delicate layer of ligaments intact. As this process requires a few days, and appropriate ventilation, the students will be working with skeletons that have already been cleaned, but will be given information on how to safely and effectively clean small bird skeletons on their own. Students will also create a naturalistic or fantasy habitat customized to their bird, and go home with a piece of osteological art that is ready to display.

Our subject will be the English sparrow. Originally brought to America to "rescue the trees from the caterpillars," they became prolific enough to outdo native birds, causing substantial destruction to wildlife and crops. However, they eliven and stay entertaining in our urban landscape, 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 English sparrows are legally and sustainably sourced, no animals are harmed for the sake of taxidermy.

Students will go home with their custom-made creations, instructions for maintaining their pieces, and newfound or nourished love of taxidermy and preservation.

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 2:50 pm 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.