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 can select from a Sunset Moth OR Monarch Butterfly-after purchase, please email [email protected] by Feb 4 to specify, or else a specimen will be selected for you at random.
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. 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 OR Monarch Butterfly (please email me to specify, or else a specimen will be selected for you at random.
-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.
Kindly note the following:
- Class takes place in the instructor's studio in Brooklyn NY, near 25th St and 3rd Ave which is a professional, working taxidermy studio. Exact location will be emailed after ticket purchase. Please be mindful of the space and bring only what you need for your day in class.
- 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 at least 5 days before the class so I can notify students. I am happy to uphold this policy and provide KN95 masks for students who may not have them.
- This class takes place in a working taxidermy studio in a 3-floor walkup building, please dress in clothes that are comfortable and practical.
- 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.
- 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 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.
- 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.
- 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 pieces.
