In this class, we will learn about the fascinating anatomy of mammals and the oxidation process of skeleton cleaning. This class is designed for beginners with an interest in small mammal preservation and skeletal preparation. No matter the experience level, all are welcome!
Students will learn everything they need to clean and articulate their very own rat skeleton, have the option to create a display on a simple wood base, or in a glass dome. Skeletons will be provided, and students will be able to modify, articulate, and position them to their liking, and mount them onto bases of their choice. Students will also create a naturalistic or fantasy habitat customized to their rat, and go home with a piece of osteological art that is ready to display.
These rat 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, students will be working with skeletons that have already been cleaned, but will be given a demonstration, instruction, and a detailed e-booklet on how to safely and effectively clean skeletons on their own.
Our subject will be the domestic rat. Rats are iconic city dwellers! Though they may be reviled by most people, they play an important role in our ecology. They are very intelligent animals who have also been bred to be loving companions. These rats are domestic rats that have 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.
Kindly note the following:
- Class takes place at a private studio in Brooklyn NY, near 25th St and 3rd Ave. Exact location will be emailed after ticket purchase.
- This class takes place in a working taxidermy studio in a 3-floor walkup building, please dress in clothes that are comfortable and practical.
- We use sharp tools in class-please wear closed toe footwear. Taxidermy involves sculpting, sewing, and other artistic methods-if you need glasses or other visual aides to help with these tasks, please bring them.
- 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.
- 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 sturdy bag to transport your pieces.
