June 8, 2024
11:00 am - 2:00 pm ET

This class takes place in a private studio in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, off the R train at 25th Street. The address will be emailed to students before class.

Cancellation policy: Refunds are not available for this class. Students can transfer their ticket or transfer to another class offered by the same instructor within the year.

In this beginner’s class, students will learn everything about basic moth/butterfly/winged insect preparation. We will discuss harvesting and drying specimen, rehydrating dried specimen, and 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 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 (Death’s Head Hawkmoth 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 Death’s Head Hawkmoth, 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. The dome size is approximately 5 in W x 8 in H.

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 Death’s Head Hawkmoth

• Their own prepared Death’s Head Hawkmoth on a spreading board, both can be used for future projects

• A dried specimen of another species to practice on at home

• And the knowledge to create their own pieces in the future!

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.

CLASS POLICIES

• Please note, this class takes place in the instructors studio, which is a professional, working taxidermy studio. Please be mindful of the space and bring only what you need for your day in class.

• The studio is in a walk up building with 3 flights of stairs-please keep this in mind and wear comfortable shoes and clothes.

• For your safety, absolutely no food, gum, or candy in class. Students are allowed to take as many breaks needed outside of class for food and gum. Drinks with a lid are ok.

• No smoking or vaping during class.

• To enter building, please meet downstairs 10 minutes before class, or contact instructor via text message to enter 828-668-2566.

• All specimens legally and sustainably sourced, no animals are harmed for the sake of taxidermy.

• Please note that all specimens in class have been professionally prepared by me-from skinning, cleaning, to tanning, and only the best condition specimens are selected for students ease and enjoyability. However, as specimens have passed from natural or unavoidable causes, there may be scars, small holes, damaged bones, chipped feathers, or other slight variations that are inherent with deceased animals, especially as many animals are found dead. These are not animals killed in prime plumage, and so “perfection” is not guaranteed. Animals are unique individuals, sourcing sustainably has inherent inconsistency, so there is no guarantee of specimen color, sex, size, or other elements. My practice is based on appreciating the animal as a unique individual, and not as a trophy.

• By signing up for class, you recognize the risks associated with a taxidermy class-work- ing 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. Students under 18 may be accompanied by a parent or other adult chaperone at no extra charge.

• 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 bring a small box or bag to transport your piece. Domed pieces will have padding provided, but if you need a bag or box, please bring one.

• Please note, there are NO refunds unless the instructor reschedules or cancels the class.

• Purchasing this ticket means you have read and agree to all class policies.