In this class, we will learn about the fascinating anatomy of insects. This class is designed for beginners with an interest in insect preservation. No matter the experience level, all are welcome!You will be learning proven, professional techniques I’ve developed and modified over the past 10 years, with close guidance and individual attention.
In this beginners class, students will learn everything about basic moth and butterfly preparation. We will discuss harvesting and drying specimens, rehydrating dried specimens, 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-the rainbow hued Sunset Moth. Students will also 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 used in this class, how students can safely source their own specimens, and suggested, reputable suppliers.
Students go home with:
- their own prepared Sunset Moth
- an extra butterfly or moth insect specimen to work on at home
- a spreading board that can be used for future projects
- simple shadowbox for the finished piece
- the knowledge to create their own pieces in the future
Important to note:
- My studio is accessed by 3 flights of stairs, or a freight elevator if it is available.
- My studio is in a building shared with other artists-please be mindful of everyone’s spaces, privacy, and volume.
- All attendees are asked to be respectful of each others boundaries, including wearing masks if requested. If you would prefer masks be worn in class, please contact me directly AHEAD OF TIME so I can notify students. I am happy to uphold this policy and provide K95 masks for all students.
- For your safety and to accommodate class 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.
- NO smoking in class, including vapes, e-cigs, flavored air, or any other device. This is a safety hazard in an art studio with flammable compounds like paint, solvents, wood, and to accommodate students comfort. You can step outside to smoke as much as needed.
- Please wear comfortable clothing and closed toe shoes, something you would wear for an art class or woodworking class. If you wear glasses, please bring them.
- 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 unless otherwise arranged for.
- Students under 18 are welcome with a chaperone. 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 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.
- Please bring a small box or bag to transport your pieces.
