In this class, we will learn about the fascinating anatomy of birds and traditional bird taxidermy. This class is designed for beginners with an interest in bird taxidermy. 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.
Students will learn everything they need to create their very own bird taxidermy mount, from proper skinning, degreasing/washing, to sculpting, mounting, and finishing. Students will watch a skinning and fleshing demonstration, and proceed to work with professionally cleaned, fleshed, and tanned skins. This will allow the students to focus on the finer details of creating a finished piece, and practice specific mounting techniques, like wiring, fitting and modifying a form, sewing, assembly, grooming, and feathering. We will discuss how to use reference and study anatomy practically for taxidermy.
Our subject will be the domestic parakeet, also known as the budgerigar. These birds are originally native to Australia, but over the years, they have been bred in captivity for human companionship. In the wild, the species is green and yellow with black scalloped markings on the nape, back, and wings, but domestic birds can come in a combination of blues, whites, yellows, and greys. These birds are legally and sustainably sourced, as birds that have passed from old age or illness-no animals are harmed for the sake of taxidermy.
Students will go home with their custom-made creations (a bird taxidermy mount on a reusable temporary base) instructions for maintaining their pieces, and newfound or nourished love of taxidermy.
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.
