In this class, we will learn about the fascinating anatomy of mammals and traditional mammal taxidermy. This class is designed for beginners with an interest in mammal 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.This class is designed for beginners to learn professional level techniques used in small mammal taxidermy. By focusing on the facial features, students will create a shoulder mount that can be affixed to a plaque or hung as is. Students will learn proper skinning and fleshing procedures, how to split, turn and position facial features, including the ears. Students will work with professionally cleaned and tanned skins, and learn the traditional methods of sculpting and carving a bust, to create a shoulder mount form.
Students can create a naturalistic mount, or have the option to create a hydrid “rat-a-lope” by sculpting their own horns or tusks. Students are also welcome to bring their own props or accessories if desired.
(This class uses domestic rats and not wild rats).
Each student will leave class with a finished piece, and the knowledge to create their own pieces in the future. Students will go home with their custom-made creations (a taxidermy mount on a wood base) and 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.
